When preparing for an interview, many people think of it as simply a structured conversation where one person asks questions and the other provides answers.
However, whether you’re meeting with a recruiter or interviewing with an employer, it’s important to remember that interviews are a two-way street. They’re not only a chance for the interviewer to evaluate you, but also an opportunity for you to learn more about the role and the organization. Too often, we see candidates reach out hours after an interview with questions they could (and should) have asked during the conversation.
That’s why we recommend preparing a list of thoughtful, insightful questions ahead of time. Doing so demonstrates that you’re professional, engaged, and genuinely interested in the position. It also helps you gain a clearer picture of the job before making any commitments. After all, no interviewer can cover every detail of a role in a single meeting. Your questions can fill in those gaps and give you the confidence that this is the right fit.
In this blog, we’ll share 10 smart questions you can ask in your next interview to show that you’re prepared and ready to hit the ground running.
Asking Questions During an Interview
Many candidates feel unsure about asking questions in an interview—not because they don’t have any, but because they worry it might make them seem unprepared, nervous, or even difficult. The truth is, asking thoughtful questions is one of the best ways to show that you are prepared, engaged, and genuinely interested in the role.
To make this easier, we suggest bringing a small binder to your interviews. Inside, include a pen, a notebook, several copies of your resume, and a prepared list of questions to ask. Your list can mirror the examples we’ll share in this blog, but remember: if a question is already answered during the conversation, don’t ask it again. For example, if your interviewer mentions how long they’ve been with the company early on, avoid repeating that question later. Asking a question that has already been answered may come across as if you weren’t listening.
While repeating questions can hurt your chances, asking the right ones can set you apart. Before wrapping up your next interview, be sure to consider asking these key questions:
What are the day-to-day responsibilities of this position?
One of the most valuable questions you can ask in an interview, if it hasn’t already been addressed, is about the day-to-day responsibilities of the role. This gives you a clearer picture of what the job truly involves and whether it’s a good fit for your skills and preferences. For example, if you struggle with communication and the role requires constant cold calling, you’ll know upfront that it may not be the right position for you.
Understanding the daily responsibilities also helps you prepare if you do get the job. For instance, if most of the work involves using Excel, you could brush up on your skills with a refresher course before your first day, setting yourself up for success.
Can you describe the working culture of the company?
Do you want a job where you’ll actually look forward to coming to work each day? One of the best ways to gauge that is by asking about the company’s work culture during your interview. Culture plays a huge role in whether you’ll thrive in a role, so it’s worth digging deeper.
Generally, workplace cultures fall into four main categories: hierarchical cultures, market-driven cultures, clan cultures, and adaptable/flexible cultures. Understanding which type a company leans toward can help you decide if it’s the right environment for you.
What are some of the challenges I might face in this position?
Another great question to ask is: “What are some of the challenges I might face in this position?”
When you ask this, be ready to follow up with a real-world example of how you’ve overcome similar challenges in the past. For instance, if the interviewer mentions “handling complaints from customers,” you can share a story about how you successfully managed a customer complaint in a previous role.
This type of question shows the employer that you’re not only proactive but also prepared to tackle obstacles head-on, which are qualities that make you a stronger candidate.
Can you tell me more about the department or team I would be working in?
Another insightful question to ask is: “Can you tell me more about the department or team I would be working in?”
This question helps you get a clearer picture of how the company is structured and what kind of environment you’ll be stepping into. The response can reveal whether the role is highly collaborative, who you’ll be working alongside, and who you’ll be reporting to.
Since you’ll be spending most of your time with this team, understanding their dynamics before accepting the role is essential. Knowing how they work, and whether that aligns with your own style, can help you decide if the position is truly the right fit.
Do you have any concerns or questions about my qualifications?
Feedback is key to growth, and asking for it during an interview can set you apart. A question like “Do you have any concerns about my background or qualifications?” not only helps you identify areas for improvement but also shows the employer that you’re open to constructive criticism, which is an essential trait for success in any role.
If the interviewer does raise a concern, this is your opportunity to address it directly. For example, if they mention your limited writing experience, you can explain what steps you’ve already taken to strengthen those skills and how you plan to continue improving.
Most candidates skip this question, but it can be one of the most valuable ones you ask. Even if you don’t land the job, the feedback you receive can guide your development and better prepare you for future opportunities.
What are the most immediate projects that need to be addressed?
Asking “What projects will I be working on during my first few weeks?” gives you a clear picture of what your first couple of months will look like and allows you to prepare for a strong start. It also shows the employer that you’re proactive and already thinking about how you can contribute from day one.
The best part? If the interviewer shares specific details about upcoming projects, it’s often a strong indicator that they see you as a serious candidate for the role. Use this question to your advantage!
What attributes does someone need to have to be really successful in this position?
When you ask “What attributes does someone need to have to be really successful in this position?”, be ready to connect their answer back to your own experience. For example, if the interviewer says the role requires a strong problem-solver, share a specific example of a time you successfully solved a challenging problem. Whatever qualities they highlight, relate them to your background to show why you’d be a great fit.
And remember, if one of the attributes mentioned isn’t currently your strongest skill, that’s okay. It simply gives you an opportunity to grow. For instance, if handling stress is a key requirement, you can continue to strengthen that area by developing strategies and seeking out resources.
What are the performance expectations of this position over the first 12 months?
Most companies set specific goals or benchmarks for employees to achieve each year. Asking “What performance expectations do you have for the first 12 months?” shows the interviewer that you’re motivated, goal-oriented, and committed to meeting (or even exceeding) their standards. It also helps you understand exactly how your success will be measured in the role.
How long have you been with the company? What’s your favorite part about working here?
Asking questions about your interviewer is a smart way to learn more about the company’s culture from someone who actually experiences it day to day. For example, if your interviewer has been with the company for several years, it may signal strong employee satisfaction and long-term career opportunities. On the other hand, if they’ve only been there a few weeks, it might suggest higher turnover, which is something worth considering.
You can also ask about their favorite part of working at the company. This usually brings out a genuine answer that reflects the culture more authentically than a polished company pitch. For instance, if they say, “I love how collaborative the team is, and we even get Fridays off,” that’s a strong sign of a positive work environment. But if their answer is something minor, like “We have two fridges in the office,” it might reveal that there aren’t many standout aspects of the culture to highlight.
What are the next steps in the hiring process?
Your final question should always be: “What are the next steps in the hiring process?”
Without asking, you may leave the interview unsure of what comes next. If you forget to ask in person, be sure to follow up by email. Skipping this question can sometimes give the impression that you’re not fully invested in the role.
Now that you have 10 strong questions to bring into your interviews, are you ready to start applying?
At City Personnel, our candidates are at the heart of everything we do. Our mission is to build meaningful connections while helping you find a role that fits your skills and brings you long-term satisfaction. We’re committed to guiding you every step of the way, whether that means preparing for interviews, polishing your resume, or connecting you with the right opportunities.
Still on the fence about working with a staffing agency? Discover the many benefits of partnering with City Personnel.
