Best Questions to Ask at a Job Interview

It’s your turn! As the interview comes to a close, one of the final questions you may be asked is “What can I answer for you?” Your interviewer will expect for you to have some inquiries. Not asking any questions could make you seem unprepared or disinterested, so take the time to have some questions of your own ready to ask the hiring manager.

Asking questions can also give you the opportunity to further highlight some of your qualities, skills, and experience.

Make a List of Questions to Ask at the Interview

Plan ahead and have interview questions of your own ready to ask. You aren’t simply trying to get this job – you are also interviewing the employer to assess whether this company and the position are a good fit for you.

Asking questions is a good way to dig into the company culture and the specific day-to-day responsibilities of the job, so that your first week or so in the position won’t be accompanied by any major surprises.

Best Questions to Ask the Interviewer

Here’s a list of suggested questions to ask the interviewer so you can ensure the company is a good match for your qualifications and interests.

• How would you describe the responsibilities of the position?
• How would you describe a typical day and week in this position?

• Is this a new position? If not, what did the previous employee go on to do?
• What is the company’s management style?
• Who does this position report to? If I am offered the position, can I meet him or her?
• How many people work in this office/department?

• How much travel is expected?
• Is relocation a possibility?
• What is the typical work week? Is overtime expected?
• What are the prospects for growth and advancement?
• How does one advance in the company?
• Are there any examples of a career path beginning with this position?
• Would you like a list of references?
• If I am extended a job offer, how soon would you like me to start?
• What can I clarify for you about my qualifications?
• When can I expect to hear from you?
• Are there any other questions I can answer for you?
• Do you have any reservations about my qualifications?
• Do you have a policy for helping new members of the team get on board?
• What are biggest challenges of this job?
• What’s the most important thing I should accomplish in the first ninety days?
• How would you describe this company’s values?
• How has the company changed over the last few years?
• What are the company’s plans for growth and development?
• What are the biggest rewards of the job and working for this company?
• What is the best part of working for this company?
• What’s your least favorite part of working here?
• What type of background do you feel would be best suited for success in this position?

General Guidelines for Asking Questions

Avoid “Me” Questions
“Me” questions are those that put yourself ahead of the employer.

Ask One Question at a Time
Avoid multi-part questions; they will only overwhelm the employer. Each question should have one specific point.

Avoid “Yes” or “No” Questions
Most questions with a “yes,” “no,” or other one-word answer could likely be answered by searching the company’s website. Instead, stick to questions that will create a dialogue between yourself and the employer.

Ask Questions About Multiple Topics
Avoid asking questions about just one subject. For example, if you only ask questions about your manager and his managerial style, the interviewer may assume you have an issue with authority figures.