24 Good Questions to Ask in an Interview

Download Template

Download "iHire 24 Good Questions to Ask in an Interview.pdf"

When it comes to interviewing successfully as a job seeker, preparation is key. Part of that vital preparation is compiling a list of questions to ask in an interview yourself. This will do three things:

1. Show the hiring manager that you have a genuine interest in the position.

2. Give yourself a break from being in the "hot seat" during the interview.

3. Enable you to make an informed decision if an offer is extended.

Just as the interviewer needs to be confident in selecting the right candidate, job seekers need to be confident in accepting the right offer!

When gathering your list of questions, it is critical that you research the company and the position. Find out as much as you can and jot down questions about things you wish to explore further. If you are truly interested in working for the company, this should be an enjoyable exercise and make you excited for the interview. Remember to keep your questions as open-ended as possible and prioritize them in order of importance so you can use your time wisely.

Here are some examples organized by category, along with some of the worst interview questions that you should NEVER ask if you want to avoid having a bad job interview:

Good Questions to Ask in an Interview About the Position

These questions will not only help you learn more about the role, but also give you an opportunity to further explain how you'd be a great fit.

1. What attributes would the ideal candidate for this position possess?
2. Is this a new position?
3. What does a typical day look like?
4. Who does this position report to?
5. Which departments/teams does this position work with?
6. What are the key goals/objectives for this position in the coming year?
7. What are the biggest challenges this position will take on?
8. How can the person who fills this position improve upon past performance?
9. How is performance managed and measured?

Good Questions to Ask in an Interview About the Company

Discover what it's truly like to work at the company. It will be especially impressive if you ask for more information about something you learned while researching their organization.

10. How would you describe your company's culture?
11. What types of professional development/training opportunities are offered to staff?
12. What are some of the company traditions?
13. Does the company participate in any community service/volunteer programs?
14. I read about Project ABC on your website and was impressed with the results. Would this position be participating in initiatives like Project ABC?

Good Questions to Ask in an Interview About the Interviewer

Getting to know your interviewer better will help build rapport and take the focus off you (at least for a few minutes!) during the interview.

15. How long have you been with the company?
16. What did you do before this?
17. What is your management style?
18. What do you enjoy most about working here?
19. What future projects are you the most excited about?
20. How can the person who fills this position best help you reach your objectives?

Good Questions to Ask in an Interview at the End

Don't leave the interview without knowing what the next steps will be or if there's anything you can do to increase your chances of getting an offer.

21. What are the next steps in the interviewing process?
22. When should I expect to hear from you/your team?
23. Is there anything else I can provide that might be helpful?
24. Do you have any final questions for me?

Find Your Next Great Opportunity!

Register with iHire to access tools and resources for every phase of your job search.

Job Seeker Sign In

Sign in with Google

Sign in with LinkedIn

Sign in with Apple

Email Address:

Next

We Value Your Privacy

What NOT to Ask in an Interview

Here is a list of topics that will do more harm than good to bring up. The worst interview questions include ones that have already been answered, show you didn't do your research, are inappropriate for the phase of the hiring process you're in, or are about personal, proprietary, or irrelevant subject matter.

1. Questions about family, hobbies, religion, age, etc.
2. Gossip or hearsay about the company.
3. What does this company do?
4. What salary should I expect?
5. When are raises awarded?
6. Can I apply for another position with the company?
7. Are background checks a part of the hiring process?
8. How much time off will I get?
9. Can I work from home?
10. Did I get the job?

While it is beneficial to have a list prepared ahead of time, don't be constrained by it or feel like you are having a bad job interview if you don't get to all of your questions. Listen carefully, let the conversation guide you, and be flexible. 

Don't make the mistake of thinking that the interview is all about how you answer questions. The questions you ask are just as important and will reflect positively or negatively on you as a potential employee. By doing your homework and knowing what questions to ask in an interview, you will demonstrate genuine confidence, curiosity, and enthusiasm.

Get even more expert interviewing advice in our Resource Center and check out our self-paced Interviewing Masterclass to take your skills to the next level.