The questions you ask during an interview can be just as important as the answers you give. Well-thought-out questions demonstrate your genuine interest in the role, showcase your industry knowledge, and provide valuable insights into whether the position is right for you. Here's our comprehensive guide to asking questions that will make you stand out from other candidates!
Questions About the Role's Evolution
"How has this position evolved since it was created?" This question shows you're thinking about the role's trajectory and helps you understand if the position is growing with the company. It also provides insights into how the organisation adapts to change.
"What does success look like in this role after 30, 60, and 90 days?" By asking about specific timelines and expectations, you demonstrate that you're already thinking about how to excel in the position. This question also helps clarify performance expectations and priorities.
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Strategic Business Questions
"What are the biggest challenges facing the department/company right now, and how could this role contribute to solving them?" This question shows you're thinking at a strategic level and are interested in being part of the solution. It also helps you understand the real problems you'd be tackling.
"How does this team's work align with the company's overall mission and current strategic priorities?" Asking about alignment with broader company goals demonstrates your understanding of the importance of cohesive organisational strategy and shows you think beyond just your immediate responsibilities.
Culture and Team Dynamics
"Can you tell me about the team's communication style and how decisions are typically made?" This question reveals your interest in team dynamics and shows you understand the importance of effective collaboration. It also helps you assess if the work environment matches your preferences.
"What learning and development opportunities are available for someone in this role?" This demonstrates your commitment to professional growth while showing you're interested in a long-term career with the company, not just a job.
Technical Competency Questions
"What technologies or methodologies is the team currently exploring or planning to adopt?" This question shows you're forward-thinking and interested in innovation. It also helps you understand if the company invests in staying current with industry trends.
"How does the team measure and evaluate success?" By asking about metrics and evaluation, you show that you're results-oriented and interested in concrete measures of achievement.
Leadership and Management Style
"What's your leadership philosophy, and how do you support your team's professional development?" This question helps you understand the management style while showing you value strong leadership and are interested in growth opportunities.
"How has the company maintained its culture while scaling/during remote work/through recent changes?" This demonstrates your awareness of industry trends and organisational challenges while showing interest in company culture.
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Project and Process Questions
"Could you walk me through a typical project lifecycle in this role?" This question shows you're practically minded and interested in understanding day-to-day operations while demonstrating project management awareness.
"What are the most significant projects this role would be involved with in the first six months?" This shows you're already thinking about how to contribute meaningfully and helps you understand immediate priorities.
Closing Strong
Remember to end with forward-looking questions such as:
"What are the next steps in the interview process?" This shows your continued interest and helps manage expectations for follow-up.
Tips for Asking Questions Effectively
Take notes during the interview to reference when asking questions
Listen actively and ask follow-up questions based on the interviewer's responses
Avoid questions about basic information readily available on the company website
Frame questions positively, focusing on opportunities rather than potential problems
Have more questions prepared than you think you'll need, as some may be answered during the interview
Conclusion
The key to asking impressive interview questions is to demonstrate thoughtful engagement with the role, company, and industry. Your questions should reflect genuine curiosity while showcasing your professional insight and strategic thinking. Remember, an interview is a two-way conversation – use your questions to evaluate if the role is right for you while proving you're right for it.
Our team of experts are passionate about helping candidates find their dream role and will support you with all the tools you need to get there. From tailoring your CV to the role you’re applying for, to detailed interview prep and check-ins after your placement, we're on every step of the journey with you. To find your next role and begin your journey with us, visit our Jobs page.
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