‘Do you have any questions for me?’ is a very common question that hiring managers will ask you during your interview.
With a multitude of follow up questions to be asked, there is one question that you should try and leave until the end!
“What is the salary?”
Asking this question first gives the perception that money is all you are interested in and really doesn’t give off a good impression. It’s best to ask this questions towards the end where it is more well-received.
Instead of immediately asking questions about the salary you should enquire about the culture and values of the company you would be working for. These are better received and shows that you are interested in the role rather than the just salary.
Recommended questions include:
- What is the size of the business? Is it global, national or local?
- Could you tell me about the culture of the business?
- Who would I be reporting to, and how many other direct reports does this person have?
- What would the expectations of the successful candidate be after three months, six months and 12 months?
Once you have asked questions that show your interest in the company and the actual role, it is perfectly acceptable to ask about salary. A great way to ask this question would be “I hope you don’t mind me asking, but as it’s a bit difficult for me to take time off work for an interview; could you give me a sense of the salary range before we move forward?”
A good salary is important but remember it isn’t everything. If you find that the company & role sounds like it would be a good fit for you don’t let a lower salary put you off.
