top 10 great questions to ask at a job interview

To show the employer that you've come prepared and are interested in the job make sure you have some questions to ask at the end of the interview

Your interview is going well. You've confidently answered all the recruiter's questions, and the session is nearing its end. One of the final questions you'll face is, "Do you have any questions for me?" Always respond with a "yes" to increase your chances of landing the job.

Having a list of questions prepared for the interviewer shows that you are interested, enthusiastic, and engaged—qualities that employers highly value. Additionally, it provides one last opportunity to underscore your relevant qualities and experience.

top tips for asking an employer questions in a job interview

Before diving into the list of questions to ask during a job interview, here are some essential pointers to remember:

Don’t say you have no questions: Regardless of how you feel—whether stressed, confident, or uncertain about how the interview went—the worst response is, “Nope, I’m good.”

Be flexible: While it’s beneficial to prepare a few questions ahead of time, be ready to adapt. If your questions have already been answered or if new ones arise during the discussion, don’t hesitate to ask those instead. You want the conversation to feel natural, not like you’re reading from a script.

Ask specific questions: Demonstrate your interest and attentiveness by tailoring your questions to the role and company. This shows that you’re engaged and highlights your relevant background and experience.

Don’t save questions for the end: Interviews are more effective as conversations. Feel free to interject with questions when it makes sense throughout the interview.

Ask about what you genuinely want to know: Focus on questions that matter to you, not just those that might impress the interviewer. This is your opportunity to clarify important details, like aspects of a project mentioned in the job description or specifics about the daily responsibilities of the role.

top 10 questions to ask at a job interview

1. can you describe the company culture?

Understanding the company culture helps you gauge whether you’ll be comfortable and thrive in the environment. Ask for specific examples, such as team activities, company events, and the general working atmosphere. This question can also reveal the company’s values and how they align with yours. Additionally, inquire about how the company handles remote work, flexibility, and inclusivity, as these are increasingly important factors in today’s workplace.

2. what does a typical day look like for this role?

This question helps you get a realistic view of what your daily responsibilities will entail. It can also uncover any repetitive tasks, the balance between individual work and teamwork, and how your time will be allocated. Understanding the day-to-day routine gives you a clearer picture of what to expect and helps you evaluate whether the role matches your interests and strengths. Moreover, it shows that you’re interested in the practical aspects of the job, not just the title and salary.

3. how do you measure success in this position?

Knowing how success is measured gives you insight into the company’s priorities and expectations. This question can reveal the key performance indicators (KPIs) and metrics used to evaluate your performance, such as project completion rates, client satisfaction scores, or sales targets. It also helps you understand what skills and qualities you should emphasise during the interview and once you’re in the role. Furthermore, it shows that you’re results-oriented and focused on contributing effectively to the company’s goals.

4. what are the biggest challenges facing the team right now?

This question demonstrates your problem-solving mindset and willingness to help tackle existing issues. It can also provide a deeper understanding of the obstacles you might encounter on the job, whether they’re related to team dynamics, resource limitations, or market conditions. By understanding these challenges, you can better assess if you’re prepared to address them and how your skills might be particularly valuable. Additionally, this question shows that you’re proactive and ready to contribute to overcoming hurdles from day one.

5. can you tell me about the team i’ll be working with?

Understanding more about your potential colleagues helps you assess the team dynamics and how you might fit in. Ask about the team’s structure, the roles and backgrounds of team members, and how they collaborate on projects. This question also shows that you value collaboration and teamwork, which are critical components of a productive work environment. Additionally, it can provide insight into the team’s culture, communication style, and any opportunities for mentorship or peer learning.

6. what opportunities for professional development are available?

This question shows that you are interested in growing within the company and are looking for a long-term opportunity. It can also provide insight into how the company supports its employees’ growth and advancement through training programmes, workshops, conferences, or tuition reimbursement. Knowing about these opportunities helps you evaluate if the company invests in its employees’ futures and if you’ll have the chance to develop new skills and advance your career. Furthermore, it indicates your commitment to continuous learning and professional growth.

7. how does the company support work-life balance?

Work-life balance is crucial for maintaining your overall well-being and productivity. This question indicates that you value a healthy balance and are mindful of your work and personal life. Ask about policies related to flexible working hours, remote work options, vacation time, and any wellness programmes the company offers. Understanding these aspects helps you determine if the company’s approach to work-life balance aligns with your needs and if you’ll be able to maintain a healthy, fulfilling life outside of work.

8. what are the next steps in the interview process?

Understanding the timeline and what to expect next shows that you are eager and serious about the opportunity. This question helps you prepare for the subsequent stages of the hiring process, whether they involve additional interviews, assessments, or reference checks. It also allows you to gauge the company’s urgency in filling the position and when you might expect a decision. Additionally, it demonstrates your proactive approach and readiness to move forward in the hiring process.

9. how has the role evolved over time?

This question can reveal if the role offers opportunities for growth and how it might change in the future. It shows that you’re thinking ahead and considering your career trajectory within the company. Understanding the evolution of the role can also indicate the company’s stability and how it adapts to changing market conditions or internal needs. Furthermore, it helps you see if there are paths for advancement or if the role has expanded in scope, which can be crucial for long-term career planning.

10. can you provide examples of projects i’d be working on?

This helps you get a sense of the type of work you’ll be doing and if it aligns with your skills and interests. It also demonstrates your eagerness to contribute meaningfully from the start. Ask for specific examples of past or current projects, their objectives, and the outcomes. This information can give you a clearer picture of your potential contributions and how you can add value to the team. Additionally, it shows that you’re already thinking about how you can hit the ground running and make an impact.

Other useful questions to ask at interview include those about:

• performance appraisals

• opportunities or challenges facing the department/company

• company-specific projects or campaigns.

If the employer doesn't give an indication of what happens next, then a good way to wrap up the interview is by asking about the next steps and when you can expect to hear from them.

By asking these questions, you not only gather important information but also leave a strong impression of being well-prepared, thoughtful, and genuinely interested in the role. Remember, an interview is a two-way street—it’s as much about you finding the right fit as it is about the employer evaluating your suitability for the job.

To help you prepare for your interview be sure to use our free interview prep tool