Do you have any questions for me?
Interviewers expect you to ask questions, too—and asking thoughtful questions can polish your image as a job seeker. It shows you’ve researched the organization and are interested in learning more about the role. Remember, you are also assessing the position and the company. Be sure to ask at least two questions.
When preparing questions before the interview, your first stop should be the organization’s website—you don’t want to ask questions already covered online. Pay close attention to details that come to light during the interview—try not to repeat what has been discussed in the earlier part of the conversation.
Here are examples of questions you can ask (and why you should ask them):
- What does a typical work day look like? What is a typical week like in this job?
(You’re showing interest in life on the job in the organization.)
- With whom would I be working? Who would be my supervisor? Please describe their supervisory style.
(You’re looking seriously at your potential place in the organization.)
- What are the challenges facing the person in this position? What are your expectations for this role?
(You’re asking about your fit within the company and your future with the organization.)
- Why did you choose to work for this company?
(Ask this question of anyone you meet during your interview. It gives the interviewer a chance to “sell” the company and gives you insight into what others think about working for the organization.)
- How would you describe your company culture?
(Are you and the company well matched? Is this the environment you want to join?)
- What is the natural career progression for employees in this role?
(You’re demonstrating that you’re thinking about a long-term future with the company.)
- Does this organization have a formal mentor or coaching program? How is it structured?
(This illustrates that you are interested in being a good employee and improving on the job.)
- How do you define success in this role? What do you measure success?
(This question provides you insight into key skills they are looking for in the organization or this role.)
After you’ve asked your questions, restate your interest in the organization. Then, ask for the job—this reiterates your interest in joining the organization.
Additional questions that you can also ask at the end.
- What are some favorite moments/challenges that you’ve faced working at [company]?
- Can you tell me how your career has developed at the organization?
- I read on your website that [insert company news]. Could you tell me more about how this has impacted your work?
- What qualities do you notice amongst your most successful interns?
- What do you enjoy most about working here?
- Can you tell me about your career path?
- If I were to be hired, what can I do to prepare/review/learn before I start?
- How would you describe promotional/growth opportunities at [company]?
- How would you best prepare for entering this industry?
- How is performance measured/evaluated in this role? How is feedback given?
- What does your typical workday look like?
- How do you see X industry changing within the future?
- How have you grown professionally/personally since you’ve started at X company?
- How does your company approach a work/life balance?
- What kind of interesting/difficult projects have you worked on?
- What gaps do you see in the company culture?
- How is the onboarding/training process at your [company]?
- Is there anything you wish you knew beforehand about your position prior to you starting it?
- What particular skills or talents are most essential to be effective in [role]?
- Can you share more about the day-to-day responsibilities of this position? What is a typical day like?
- What are things/issues that most new employees struggle with the most?
- Do you have any recommendations or tips for someone who is starting out their career?
- What could I do to make a strong impact within the first 30-60 days?
- Is there something that you look forward to when you go to work?
