Question

During a first interview you have for a job, you should
ask the interviewer about the other candidates for the job.
show your interest by asking questions.
ask questions about perks and benefits.
ask the interviewer about his or her family.

Answer 1

Short answer:
- Good: show your interest by asking thoughtful questions.
- Not appropriate on a first interview: ask about other candidates or ask the interviewer about his/her family.
- Perks and benefits: handle carefully — acceptable to ask about salary range or major benefits later in the process or if the interviewer invites it; avoid making it your first focus.

Why:
- Asking questions shows engagement and helps you learn if the job is a fit.
- Asking about other candidates is unprofessional and puts the interviewer in an awkward spot.
- Asking about the interviewer’s family is too personal and can be invasive.
- Compensation and benefits are important, but asking about them too early can make it seem like that’s your only priority. In an initial interview, focus on the role, responsibilities, team, expectations, and next steps; bring up compensation/benefits once mutual interest is established or in a recruiter/HR conversation.

Good first-interview questions (examples):
- Can you describe the day-to-day responsibilities for this role?
- What would success look like in the first 6–12 months?
- Who would I be working with and who would I report to?
- What are the biggest challenges the team/company is facing right now?
- What are the next steps in the interview process and the expected timeline?

If you want to ask about compensation/benefits early:
- Phrase it carefully: “Can you share the salary range or overall compensation band for this role?” or “Could you tell me when in the process you typically discuss benefits and compensation?”