What Questions Should I Ask in a Job Interview?

You’re sitting in the interview, it’s gone well. You’ve smiled, nodded in the right places, confidently answered their questions, and just when you think you’re nearly done, the interviewer asks…

“Do you have any questions for us?”

∗ Cue internal panic and you have a sudden urge to say: ∗

“No, I think you’ve covered everything.”

This really should NOT be your answer! Here’s why…

Asking questions isn’t just a box-ticking exercise – it’s a sign to the interviewer that you’re genuinely interested in the role and the business. It shows you’ve thought ahead, done your research, and you’re not just here to wing it.

It also gives you the chance to find out if this job, with these people, in this company, is actually the right move for you. Interviews work both ways – it’s not just about them picking you, it’s about you choosing them too.

10 smart, sensible, and totally fair questions that help you stand out for all the right reasons.

1 What does success look like in this role?

This gets straight to the point. You want to know what they expect from you beyond the job spec. Their answer gives you a glimpse of what’s really going to matter once you’re in the chair.

2 What’s the team like?

This question helps you get a sense of team dynamics – whether it’s a close-knit bunch who support each other, or more of a “keep your head down and crack on” vibe.

3 What opportunities are there for development in this role?

This is a great way to show ambition without sounding like you’re planning to take your manager’s job in 12 months. SMEs don’t always have a mapped-out career ladder – but asking about training, support, or skills you could gain shows you’re thinking long-term.

4 What would my first month look like?

You’re trying to understand what kind of support you’ll get from day one. Will there be a handover? Any formal training? Or will it be “here’s your login, good luck”? (Hopefully not.) This one sets expectations and gives you insight into how well-prepared they are to welcome someone new.

5 What are the biggest challenges in the role?

Every job has its tricky bits. Whether it’s a slightly chaotic inbox, a tough customer, or a system that last had an update in 2007 – better to go in with eyes open. Asking this shows maturity and realistic expectations.

6 What do you enjoy most about working here?

This question gives the interviewer a chance to speak personally. How they answer can be really telling if they light up and talk about the people, the support, or the variety.

7 How would you describe the company culture day-to-day?

Not the fluffy “we’re like a family” bit on the website – but the real feel of the place. Is it relaxed and informal? Fast-paced and structured? Do people get stuck in together, or work more independently? This gives you a feel for whether it’s your kind of environment without putting anyone on the defensive.

8

Can I ask you something I came across while researching the company…?

This is where you show you’ve done your homework. Whether it’s a recent award, a new product or service, or something on their website that caught your eye – referencing it and asking about it shows genuine interest, preparation, and a bit of initiative. All green flags.

9

What sort of person tends to do well in this team?

This is a lovely way of getting insight into the unspoken stuff – the attitude, approach and personality that works well in their environment. Then you can gauge if you would be the right fit for them, and vice versa.

10

Is there anything we’ve discussed today that gives you hesitation about my suitability for the role?

Alright, this one’s a little brave – but powerful. It gives you the chance to clear up any niggles or doubts before you leave the room. Plus, it shows confidence and a willingness to receive feedback. Very grown-up.

One last thing…

An interview is just as much for your benefit as it is for the company’s. This is your chance to ask whatever you need to know to decide if the role is the right fit for you. The only thing to avoid? Salary and benefits.

Yes, we all work to pay our bills. But for reasons unknown to science, it’s still a bit taboo to bring up money at the first stage. Save it for later once they’re properly interested.

In short?

Ask questions, not just because you should, but because it’s the only way to figure out whether this job is actually a great next step.

If you need a hand preparing for an interview, want to know what to say (or not say), or want to work out whether a role is the right fit; we’re always here to help.

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What Questions Should I Ask in a Job Interview?

1

What does success look like in this role?

2

What’s the team like?

3

What opportunities are there for development in this role?

4

What would my first month look like?

5

What are the biggest challenges in the role?

6

What do you enjoy most about working here?

7

How would you describe the company culture day-to-day?

8

Can I ask you something I came across while researching the company…?

9

What sort of person tends to do well in this team?

10

Is there anything we’ve discussed today that gives you hesitation about my suitability for the role?

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