6 Great Questions You Should Ask in a Job Interview
End your interviews on a high note with these thought-provoking questions that will leave a strong, lasting impression on employers.
By Kimberly Chang on 2023-11-27 at 7:12 AM
Updated on 2024-10-07 at 7:02 AM
Top Questions to Ask in a Job Interview: How to Make a Lasting Impression
When an interviewer asks, “Do you have any questions?”, many candidates see it as the end of the conversation. But this moment is more than a formality—it’s your chance to shine. Your response can set you apart from other candidates and demonstrate that you’re genuinely interested in the role and the company. By asking insightful questions, you show that you’ve done your homework, understand the organisation’s needs, and are already thinking about how you can contribute to their success.
Remember, candidates who don’t ask questions risk coming across as disengaged or unprepared. On the other hand, those who ask thoughtful questions often leave a stronger impression, even swaying the hiring decision in their favor. To help you make the most of this critical part of the interview, we’ve compiled six impactful questions that can showcase your curiosity, readiness, and willingness to contribute to the team.
1. “Do You Have Any Concerns About Me?”
This question can feel bold, but it’s a powerful way to end the interview on a strong note. It shows that you’re confident enough to face potential critiques and committed to addressing any doubts. Misunderstandings can occur during interviews—maybe you didn’t fully grasp a question or your response wasn’t clear. This question allows you to address any lingering reservations directly and clarify your qualifications.
Why it works:
Employers appreciate candidates who are proactive about feedback. It shows that you are receptive, coachable, and committed to self-improvement—qualities that are highly valued in any workplace.
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2. “What Do You Enjoy Most About Working Here?”
This question offers you a glimpse into the company’s work environment from an insider’s perspective. It also gives the interviewer an opportunity to share personal stories, which can turn the interview into a more engaging conversation. Learning about the company’s culture directly from an employee can help you determine whether the work environment aligns with your values and career goals.
Why it works:
When interviewers share their positive experiences, it helps build rapport. It also gives you a chance to evaluate if their values and workplace culture align with what you’re seeking. Plus, it shows that you’re interested in the human side of the company, not just the role itself.
3. “How Have You Grown Personally and Professionally Since Joining the Company?”
Understanding career growth opportunities is key when considering a new role. By asking this, you’ll gain insights into the company’s learning curve and the professional development opportunities available. Hearing about the interviewer’s own journey can give you a clearer picture of how your career might progress with the company.
Why it works:
It shows that you’re thinking long-term and aren’t just focused on the short-term benefits. Employers appreciate candidates who are looking for a place where they can grow over time. Additionally, it signals that you value continuous learning and professional development—qualities that are highly attractive to employers.
While asking questions demonstrates your enthusiasm for the position, not all questions are appropriate for the interview. In certain cases, they can even backfire on you. Find out what questions you should avoid asking here.
4. “Could You Tell Me More About the Team I’d Be Joining?”
Getting a sense of the team dynamics is important if you’re going to be a part of it. Ask about the people you’ll be working closely with, the team’s structure, and who you’ll be reporting to. This question helps you understand the collaborative environment and whether it matches your working style. If you have experience working in similar team structures, mentioning it can be a great way to showcase your suitability for the role.
Why it works:
It demonstrates that you are not just focused on the job but are also interested in understanding the working relationships and culture you’d be a part of. If you’ve worked in similar team structures before, mentioning your experience can be an added advantage, showcasing your adaptability and readiness to integrate smoothly.
5. “What Does a Typical Day Look Like for Someone in This Position?”
While you may already have a general understanding of the role from the job description, this question digs deeper. It helps you understand the daily tasks and expectations of the position, providing a realistic view of what your day-to-day responsibilities will be. It also gives the interviewer a chance to highlight any unique aspects of the role that may not have been covered earlier.
Why it works:
It shows that you’re thinking practically and want a full understanding of the role before committing. This can be a deciding factor in evaluating whether the job aligns with your skills and career aspirations. Plus, it helps ensure that you won’t be caught off guard by unexpected duties after joining.
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6. “What Would My Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) Be?”
Asking about KPIs is a strong move near the end of an interview. It indicates that you’re already thinking about how to succeed in the role and contribute to the company’s goals. Understanding what success looks like from the employer’s perspective will give you a clear idea of how to align your efforts with their expectations.
Why it works:
This question not only shows your eagerness to contribute but also helps you understand how your performance will be measured. It sets the stage for discussing your potential impact on the company and demonstrates that you’re focused on delivering results.
Conclusion: Ask the Right Questions and Impress Your Interviewer
Asking thoughtful questions during an interview does more than just fill time—it demonstrates your enthusiasm for the role, your desire to understand the company better, and your readiness to contribute from day one. These questions help you gather valuable information about the company’s culture, growth opportunities, and expectations, allowing you to make a more informed decision if an offer comes your way.
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By Kimberly Chang on 2023-11-27 at 7:12 AM