When you’re in a job interview, it’s important to take part in the conversation by asking questions of your own. To make sure you ask the right questions, preparation – especially through research on the company and the job function you are applying for — is very important.
In this guide, you’ll find several examples of questions you can ask during the interview, and how to leave a great impression on the recruiter or employer.
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Why is it good to ask questions yourself too?
As an applicant, it is important to ask good questions during a job interview. If you actively take part in the conversation, the job interview will become more interesting and equally balanced.
By asking questions as an interviewee, you demonstrate to your potential boss that you’ve done your homework on the company and the job, and that you want to learn more about it. It will therefore be more likely that you’re taken into consideration for the role. Especially when you’ve shown that you aren’t scared to take control of the conversation.
Always remember that you and the employer are both looking for the right match. The job interview is first and foremost meant to determine whether you fit together. Asking the right questions will help you make the right decision.
Questions to ask in an interview
Below you will find some good examples of questions you can ask during a job interview. We have split these into four categories.
Your role within the company
- What will a typical workday look like for me?
The answer to this question will help you decide whether the job you’re applying for really suits you.
- Can you tell me a bit about the team that I’ll be working with?
You’ll get to know your colleagues better by asking this question, especially those you’ll be working with directly. It will also demonstrate your interest in the job and the company.
- What is expected of me in the first few months?
This question will demonstrate your interest in the job and the expectations the company has of you.
- Can you tell me a bit about who was working this role before me?
It’s important to gain knowledge on how your predecessor did their work and what skills they had. This will give you an indication on where improvements need to be made and which experience and skills are necessary to make your job successful.
- What are this job’s greatest challenges?
This question gives you a sense of what to expect and where your focus and attention needs to be. It helps you understand the challenges of the job and what is expected of you by the management.
Your interviewer
- How long have you worked here?
This question is a great way to show interest in your interviewer. It will act as an icebreaker and give you a chance to ask them about their experiences within the company.
- How is your experience in working for this company?
Thanks to this question you’ll gain a better understanding of the job itself and the company culture. Your interviewer can thus give you a fresh perspective on how it is to work for the company.
- Why would you recommend this company to others?
This is an interesting one as it will be a way for the interviewer to convince you to join the team. They might even be able to provide you with information that you normally wouldn’t have access to.
The company
- How would you describe the company culture?
One aspect of joining a company that weighs heavily on your decision, is the company culture, so why not directly ask about this? You will experience it on a daily basis and for this reason, it should match your expectations and wishes.
- Does everyone work individually or is teamwork also involved?
The work methods the company uses, is another important aspect to take into consideration. Before the interview, check if you’d rather work individually or in a team. Then, based on your findings, you can decide what’s important to you.
- What are the most important opportunities/challenges that the company is facing?
This question shows the interviewer that you are genuinely interested in the company and the challenges they deal with on a daily basis.
Development and career opportunities
- Can you tell me more about the growth opportunities within the company?
By asking this question, you show the recruiter that you’re in for the long term and that you’re motivated to move up the company ladder.
- How can I determine my career opportunities when I decide to leave this role?
It’s always a good idea to ask about future career opportunities after rounding off the role you are taking within the company. It will inform you on your future options and the possibilities to grow within your role.
Questions to ask at the end of the interview
Don’t hesitate to also ask questions at the end of the interview. Especially if things are unclear or you have the feeling that something hasn’t been discussed. Below are two examples:
- Do you have any questions about anything on my CV?
This question will help you uncover whether the interviewer has any doubts and whether he sees you as a qualified candidate based on your CV.
- What are the next steps after my interview?
This is an important question, as it will clear up the next few steps in the interview process. It will also help you prepare for a second interview or an assessment.
Do you wonder what kinds of questions an interviewer might ask you during a job interview? Then take a look at our useful guide about the 9 interview questions you should prep for.
Are you going to an internship interview? Then this complete guide will help you prepare.
FAQ’s
Why is it important that I ask my own questions during a job interview?
Firstly, it is important to get information about the company you are applying for. But you also demonstrate, by asking questions, that you know what you’re talking about. Read more about why it is important to ask questions yourself…
Which kinds of questions can you ask during a job interview?
Different themes split up the questions you can ask an interviewer. Make sure you have written down a few questions before you enter the job interview. Read more on which kinds of questions you can ask…