The Best Questions to Ask at a Job Interview (and Why They Matter)

When a job interview is coming to a close and the hiring manager asks, “Do you have any questions for us?” — your answer should never be “No.”

Asking smart, thoughtful questions shows you're engaged, prepared, and genuinely interested in the role and company. It’s also your opportunity to evaluate if the job is the right fit for you.

Here’s a breakdown of the best questions to ask at a job interview, grouped by purpose.

Questions to Understand the Role Better

These help you clarify the day-to-day expectations and responsibilities:

• “What does a typical day or week look like in this role?”
  → Helps you understand the pace, structure, and workload.
  
  
• “What are the key challenges someone in this role might face?”
  → Gives insight into what you’d be walking into and whether you’re equipped to handle it.
  
  
• “How will success be measured in this position?”
  → Shows you’re goal-oriented and want to align with the company’s expectations.

Questions About the Team and Management Style

Understanding team dynamics is essential to knowing if you’ll thrive in the environment.

• “Can you tell me more about the team I’ll be working with?”
  → Gives you a sense of team structure, size, and collaboration.
  
  
• “How would you describe the management style of the person I’d be reporting to?”
  → Helps you understand if their leadership approach suits your working style.

Questions About Growth and Development

These show your long-term interest and ambition:

• “Are there opportunities for professional development or training?”
  → Indicates you want to grow and add value over time.
  
  
• “What are typical career paths for someone in this role?”
  → Shows you’re thinking ahead and committed to your career progression.

Questions That Show Cultural Fit

Company culture can make or break your experience — don’t skip these.

• “How would you describe the company culture here?”
  → Helps you assess if your values align with theirs.
  
  
• “What do you enjoy most about working here?”
  → A personal perspective can give you an honest feel for the workplace.

Strategic Questions to Leave a Lasting Impression

These are bold, thoughtful questions that make hiring managers think — and remember you.

• “What are the biggest opportunities facing the team or company right now?”
  → Shows you're already thinking like an insider.
  
  
• “Is there anything about my background or experience that gives you pause?”
  → A gutsy but powerful question. It opens the door to address concerns and shows self-awareness.
  
  
• “What’s the next step in the interview process?”
  → Always end with this. It shows initiative and lets you know what to expect.

Questions to Avoid

• “What does the company do?” (You should know this already.)
• “How much vacation time do I get?” (Wait until the offer stage.)
• “Can I work from home?” (Ask only if remote/hybrid work wasn’t covered.)

Final Thoughts

The questions you ask during an interview are just as important as the answers you give. They reflect your curiosity, professionalism, and mindset — all things a hiring manager pays attention to. So come prepared, listen closely, and ask with confidence.

Pro Tip: Write down 3–5 of your favorite questions and bring them with you to the interview. Use them as a guide when it’s your turn to ask.