The top 25 questions to ask interviewers

If you are preparing for a job interview you may have already rehearsed your answers to the most commonly asked questions.

You know the interviewer may ask about your strengths, weaknesses, values, and experience to determine whether you are a good fit for the company, and you’re ready.

What you may not have considered is your answer to "do you have any questions?"

Saying "no" can give the impression that you’re not all that interested in the position or company. On the other hand, asking the right questions can show you’re prepared, engaged, and eager to become a part of the team.

So, what are the best questions to ask in an interview?

In the following guide, we'll explore the topic, giving you insight into why asking questions can give you an advantage.

Plus, we'll share the top questions you can ask (and those you should avoid) to help you land your dream job.

Why you should ask questions during a job interview

A job interview should be a conversation. While the interviewer is there to learn about you, your experience, and your skills, it is also an opportunity for you to decide whether this is somewhere you'd like to work.

Why should you ask clear, relevant, and informed questions during a job interview?

Here are just a few of the biggest reasons.

1. You'll be making a good first impression

When a job seeker asks the interviewer questions, it shows they are genuinely interested in the position.

We all know first impressions matter, and asking the right questions will prove to the hiring manager that you're inquisitive, thoughtful, and prepared to do your homework.

2. You show that you took time to research the company

What is the best way to prove you’ve done your research? Asking questions. Showing up unprepared for a job interview is a red flag for your potential employer. What is the best way to prove you’ve done your research? Asking questions.

To learn more, we recommend looking at the company’s website. Focus on their 'about us' page, and their 'career' or 'employee page'.

89% of job seekers want to understand the employer’s mission and purpose before a job interview. Researching will give you ideas for interview questions, and you will gain an understanding of who they are.

This is just one tool you can use, with information available via social media and current employees. You can also ask a question in the Jobcase community and gain insights from other Jobcasers.

3. You show you're confident and able to assert yourself in the right way

Job interviews can be nerve-wracking, but asking questions can be a good ice breaker. When you ask the right questions, the conversation will flow naturally, and this can help you to relax.

You will look confident and assertive when you frame a good question, and these are desirable qualities to have when working in a team environment.

88% of hiring decision-makers agree that an informed candidate stands out.

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4. You can gain information to decide if it's the right job for you

An interview is a two-way street, and both the candidate and employer should feel confident they can have a successful working relationship.

Asking questions about the job role, career path, and interview process can help you determine whether it's the right company for you.

The top 25 questions to ask interviewers (and get the job)

You may be wondering what questions to ask in an interview. The answer will depend on the job description and the company.

To get you started, we’ve compiled a list of the top 25 questions, sorted by category.

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Questions about the job and the hiring process

Not sure what to expect or when they might call? The following sample questions will give you information about their hiring processes:

• What is the next step in the interview process?
• What would be the expected start date?
• What specific skills are you looking for?
• What would my workplace goals be during the first month?
• What hours are expected, and is there the opportunity to work overtime?

Questions about the company and the team

These sample questions will give you insight into the brand and the team you may be working with. Use the answers to decide if the workplace matches your working style.

• What does a typical day look like for employees at your company?
• How big is the team that I’d be working with?
• Who would my manager be, and what is their management style?
• Are you expecting to hire more people to work in the team?
• What is on the horizon for the company? What does the future look like? Please note, this question is only suitable for jobs with room for long-term career progression.

Questions about the company culture

Do the company's values align with your own? Is the workplace somewhere you could see yourself working every day? These sample questions will help you decide.

• How would you describe the company culture?
• Can you tell me how your company maintains a positive work environment?
• What employee values would fit with the company’s or team’s culture?
• What can you tell me about the work environment?
• Does your company have events? For example, team-building exercises, volunteer programs, or social activities.

These questions can help you get a real sense of the company’s core values.

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Questions about performance, training, and professional development

If this is your dream job and you are wondering what to ask in an interview, think about questions that focus on long-term success.

• Are training and professional development opportunities offered?
• How do you measure performance?
• Is there a pathway for career progression?
• Is there structured onboarding and training provided?
• Is overtime encouraged or expected?

Questions about your interviewer

It is a smart idea to build a relationship with the interviewer from the first meeting. Remember, they could be your future work colleague or boss. Here are some professional questions you can ask.

• What do you enjoy most about working here?
• What are some of the challenges you think a new employee will face?
• How long have you been working here?
• What made you choose this company?
• How has your career benefited from working here?

FAQs about interview questions

The following FAQs will help you select the right questions to ask at your next interview.

Should I ask about the salary in the first interview?

No. The key is to sound enthusiastic about the job while focusing on what you can bring to the company. Unless the hiring manager mentions it, wait until they offer you a position before discussing salary.

How many questions should I ask during a job interview?

We recommend you only ask three or four questions. Have a total of 10 prepared as there may be opportunities to ask questions naturally throughout the conversation.

TIP: Don't be embarrassed to write your questions on paper if you’re worried about forgetting them.

What if I don’t have any questions about the job?

Ask about the company or team instead. You should always try to have at least a couple of questions ready, as this will show that you’re interested and engaged. Researching the company and writing a few notes will help you compose the right questions.

Preparing questions for a job interview

Before your job interview, think about your skills and experience, take care of your appearance, and print a copy of your resume. As part of your interview preparation, think about questions you may like to ask your potential employer.

We’ve given you a list of 25 suitable questions, but as you learn about the company and position, you can make them more specific.

Asking the right interview questions at the right time will show you’re confident and genuinely interested in the company.

Add "interviewer questions" to your pre-interview checklist, and it could be the factor that makes you stand out from the crowd and land a top job.

For more interview advice, check out the Tips to Getting Hired Resource Center.