The best questions to ask in an interview to stand out

Asking smart, thoughtful questions in a job interview isn’t just about impressing your interviewer, it’s about making sure the role and company are the right fit for you. Whether you're in the early stages of your career or a seasoned professional, the questions you ask can leave a lasting impression and help you make a confident, informed decision.

In this guide, we’ll cover the best questions to ask an interviewer across different categories including the role, the team, company culture, development opportunities and next steps. You’ll also find tips on how to tailor your questions and what to avoid, plus answers to some of the most common interview-related queries.

Why it’s important to ask questions in an interview

Interviews are a two-way street. While your interviewer is assessing your skills and suitability, you’re also evaluating whether the role aligns with your career goals and values. Asking the right questions shows you're engaged, well-prepared and genuinely interested in the opportunity.

It also demonstrates soft skills such as critical thinking, communication and curiosity, which are all highly valued in the workplace.

How to approach this part of the interview

When the interviewer asks, “Do you have any questions for me?”, avoid saying “No, you’ve covered everything.” Even if the discussion has been detailed, always have a few thoughtful questions ready to go.

Here’s how to approach it:

• Prepare 5–10 questions in advance (you may only get to ask 2–3)
• Listen closely during the interview so you can ask relevant follow-ups
• Tailor your questions to the role, company and interviewer
• Avoid questions you could easily answer yourself by reading the job ad or company website

Questions to ask about the role

These questions show you're thinking seriously about the day-to-day responsibilities and expectations of the position.

• What does a typical day or week in this role look like?
• What are the biggest challenges someone in this role might face?
• What are the immediate priorities for this position in the first 3–6 months?
• How is success measured in this role?
• Is this a newly created role or a backfill? Why did the previous person leave?

Questions to ask about the team

Understanding who you’ll be working with helps you picture yourself in the environment.

• Can you tell me more about the team I’d be working with?
• How does the team typically collaborate or communicate?
• What are the backgrounds or skill sets of the other team members?
• Are there any cross-functional projects or departments I’d work closely with?

Questions to ask your potential manager

If you’re interviewing with your prospective manager, it’s a great chance to understand their leadership style and expectations.

• How would you describe your management style?
• What do you see as the strengths of your current team?
• How often do you provide feedback or conduct performance reviews?
• What are your expectations of someone in this role in the first year?

Questions to ask about the company

Digging into the organisation’s goals, values and direction can help you understand the bigger picture.

• What are the company’s main goals or priorities over the next 12–18 months?
• How would you describe the company’s values or mission?
• How does the company support diversity, equity and inclusion?
• What are some recent challenges the business has faced, and how were they addressed?
   

Questions to ask about company culture

Culture can have a big impact on your experience and engagement at work. These questions help uncover what it’s really like day-to-day.

• How would you describe the company culture here?
• How does the organisation support work-life balance?
• What’s something people tend to love about working here?
• Are there any team rituals, events or initiatives that help build connection?

You might also like: How to tell if a company’s culture is right for you

Questions to ask about learning and development

Asking about growth shows you're proactive and thinking long-term.

• What learning and development opportunities are available?
• Are there internal mobility or promotion pathways?
• How does the company support upskilling or continuous learning?
• Is there a budget or allowance for training, conferences or certifications?

Questions to ask at the end of the interview

These questions can help you wrap up confidently and leave a strong final impression.

• What are the next steps in the process?
• Is there anything else I can provide to support my application?
• Do you have any hesitations about my experience or fit for the role?
• When are you hoping to make a decision?

Unique questions to stand out

If you want to leave a memorable impression, consider asking something a little unexpected (but still professional).

• What’s the most surprising thing you’ve learned since joining this company?
• What does success look like in this role beyond KPIs?
• If you could change one thing about the company, what would it be?
• How does this role or team contribute to the company’s broader mission?

Questions to avoid asking

While curiosity is great, some questions can come across as poorly timed or raise red flags.

Avoid:

• Asking about salary or benefits too early (save this for the offer stage)
• Anything easily found on the company website
• “What does the company do?” – you should already know this
• “How soon can I take time off?” – it can imply a lack of commitment
• “How did I do?” – it puts the interviewer on the spot

Final thoughts

Asking smart, relevant questions in an interview can be the difference between being remembered, or forgotten. It shows initiative, helps you better understand the role and company, and gives you the information you need to make the right decision for your career.

Looking for more interview support?

Download our complete interview guide for tips on how to prepare, answer common questions and make a lasting impression.