When To Ask About Benefits And Salary?
... and other topics you should never raise in the interview.
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When should you ask about benefits, salary, sick pay or maternity packages?
The general rule is NOT IN THE INTERVIEW.
But chances are you'll want answers to your questions, before you accept a job offer. So when should you raise these potentially tricky topics? |
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Salary
NEVER ask about salary in the job interview.
You should have checked that the job is within your target salary range, before the interview. So don't raise the topic of money, unless in response to the interviewer's question.
If possible, leave salary negotiations until the job offer comes through. Your confidence will be soaring and your negotiation position will be stronger.
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Benefits Package
Is there a particular benefit that's important to you (e.g. a company car)?
The job interview isn't really the time to ask about benefits.
If the absence of that benefit would mean you'd turn down the job offer, then you should check it out before you even apply - or at least before you take time off work for the interview.
If it's a benefit you're more flexible about, then negotiate after the job offer. If you're already at that stage, then check out the section on salary negotiation. |
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Holiday Entitlement / Maternity Leave / Sick Pay Entitlement:
This would form part of your contract of employment and you are entitled to see details of the company's policies before accepting the job offer.
This topic can make the interviewer uneasy. They might assume you're about to become pregnant (and go on maternity leave) or maybe hiding a long-term illness that would lead to significant periods of absence.
Their imagination may run riot! |
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Working Hours / Overtime / Travel:
This can be a harmless question; and one you should get an answer to! But it might lead the interviewer to start mind-reading.
They could assume that, because you "need to ask", then you'll not want to work long hours or travel.
If this is an issue for you, then you should clarify it with the employer's HR contact before you apply for the job. |
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Job Interview Travel Expenses: Will the company pay them?
Unlikely. Nowadays it's rare for a first round interview candidate to be paid expenses.
The exceptions to this rule are if you head-hunted or travelling from overseas. You may then find economy class travel will be refunded. If it's an issue for you, clarify this before accepting the interview appointment - not during the interview!
Second round interviews will sometimes include travel expenses, particularly for graduate recruitment, but you should check first, rather than assuming. |
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Next: What To Take With You
With a little thought and lateral thinking, it's easy to make sure you're well-prepared. |
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