Questions to Ask in a Job Interview

“Do you have any questions for me?” You’ll hear this near the end of every job interview — and your answer should always be “yes!”

Here’s why:

1. Asking relevant questions will show the interviewer you’re interested not only in getting the job but in succeeding once you’re hired.
2. An interview goes both ways. It’s your chance to determine if the job and the work environment will fit you well.

So, what should you ask in the interview? Here are some ideas that you can adapt to the individual job. Review the job description as you plan your questions so you don’t ask something already answered there.

Pro Tip

It’s normal to feel nervous going into a job interview. If you’re worried you’ll forget what you want to ask, bring a notepad with questions written down beforehand.

The interviewer may answer some of your questions as they describe the job. Write down the answers as needed. Asking questions that have just been answered may make it seem like you weren’t paying attention.

Questions to Learn What the Job Will Be Like

1. What exciting projects or initiatives are coming up that I’d be part of?
2. What does the typical day look like in this job?
3. What are the biggest challenges facing the team right now? How would I be part of solving them?
4. (If you’re being interviewed by the person you’ll report to) How would you describe your management style?
5. What can you tell me about the people I’d be working with most? What is the team dynamic like?
6. Is this a new position at the company, or will I be taking over for an employee who is leaving?

Pro Tip

This is an excellent opportunity to volunteer some of your experience to help the interviewer see you in the job. If they describe a project similar to one you worked on and enjoyed, say so! If you’ve solved a similar challenge, share how you did it. An interview is most effective when it’s a back-and-forth conversation.

Questions to Determine If You Can Be Successful in the Job

1. What does success look like in this role?
2. Describe someone on the team who is a star performer. What characteristics do they have that make them so outstanding? (For example, they always come with solutions or build up the team with a positive attitude.)
3. What would you want to see me accomplish in my first 90 days on the job?
4. How would my performance be measured? Are there specific metrics or goals that I would need to meet?
5. Does the company have a formal performance review process?
6. What are the biggest challenges I would face in this role?

Questions About the Work Environment

1. How would you describe the company culture?
2. What do you like most about working here?
3. Is there a lot of collaboration between team members, or do people mostly work independently?

Questions to Gauge Growth Potential

1. What opportunities are there for professional development?
2. Will there be assignments and projects where I can learn new skills and expand my abilities?
3. Are there opportunities for advancement in the company? Do you often promote from within?
4. Do people typically stay in this position long-term, or do they move to other positions in the company?
5. What direction do you see the company heading in the next five years?
6. What are you most excited about in terms of the company’s future?

Closing Questions

1. Is there anything further I can provide that would be helpful?
2. What are the next steps?

Need personalized help with your job search?

With offices in Wichita, Kansas, and Tulsa, Oklahoma, Summit Employment Professionals offers friendly, honest, one-on-one help for job seekers at all career stages. Contact us today.