Questions To Ask In An Interview:

When preparing for an interview, most job seekers heavily focus on how to answer questions. But equally important is coming prepared with smart questions to ask in an interview. Not only does this show your interest and enthusiasm for the role, but it also helps you decide if the company and position are truly the right fit.

A point to note, many of our hiring managers will reject candidates for not asking thoughtful questions. While I don’t have official statistics on how often this occurs, it happens frequently enough that job seekers should know that not asking questions during the interview can be a deciding factor.

The questions you ask reveal to the interviewer that you are thoughtful, engaged, and serious about your future. More importantly, they give you valuable insights into the company culture, team dynamics, professional growth opportunities, and performance expectations.

Below are the best questions to ask in an interview to make a strong impression and gather the information you need.

Questions About the Role & Expectations

Understanding the responsibilities and objectives of the role is essential before you accept any job offer. Consider asking:

• What are the key responsibilities for this position?

• What would a typical day or week look like in this role?

• What are the immediate priorities for someone starting in this position?

• What are your expectations for me in the first 90 days?

• What does success look like in this position?

• How is performance measured, and what metrics or goals are used?

Why ask these? These questions help you assess what’s expected, how your performance will be evaluated, and whether the role aligns with your skills and strengths.

Questions About the Team & Company Culture

Every job is influenced by the work environment and the people you’ll be collaborating with. To get a feel for both, you might ask:

• Can you describe the company culture?

• What do you like best about working here?

• What are the biggest challenges the team is facing right now?

• Can you tell me more about the team I’ll be working with?

Why ask these? You’ll gain insight into the values, work style, and overall environment, which helps you gauge if you’ll thrive in the organization.

Questions About Growth & Development

A job should not only meet your current needs but also support your future career goals. Here are a few must-ask questions:

• What opportunities are there for professional development and career growth?

• How does the company support employees in developing new skills or advancing internally?

Why ask these? These questions show ambition and a long-term mindset, while also helping you evaluate if the company invests in its people.

Questions About the Hiring Process & Next Steps

Finally, don’t leave the interview without understanding what comes next. You can ask:

• What are the next steps in the hiring process?

• When can I expect to hear about the status of this position?

Why ask these? Clarity on the process demonstrates professionalism and helps manage your expectations.

Final Thoughts

Coming prepared with well-thought-out questions to ask in an interview serves two purposes. First, it is one of the best ways to leave a positive impression. And secondly, you are able to make sure the role is a good fit for you. Remember, a job interview is a two-way conversation. It is your chance to evaluate the company as much as it is the company’s chance to evaluate you.

By asking about role expectations, team culture, growth opportunities, and next steps, you’ll stand out as a confident, proactive candidate ready to take the next step in your career.

Do you need help preparing for an interview? We offer coaching. Feel free to sign up for one of our Live Interactive Webinars, Office Hours, Community, or one-to-one coaching.