In this guide
instructional guide
Questions to ask at the end of a job interview
Questions to ask an interviewer about the role, team, success measures and next steps, plus the questions to save for later and how many to prepare.
Why your questions matter
An interview is a two-way decision. Your questions help you judge whether the role, the manager and the organisation suit you, and they show the interviewer that you have thought seriously about the work. Questions that build on something said earlier in the interview are especially effective because they show you were listening.
Questions about the role
These help you understand what the job involves day to day and how you would be judged.
- What would success look like in the first three to six months?
- What are the biggest challenges for the person in this role right now?
- How is the work divided between this role and the rest of the team?
- Why is the role available — is it new, or replacing someone?
Questions about the team and manager
The people you work with often shape a job as much as the tasks do.
- How would you describe the way the team works together?
- How do you prefer to communicate and give feedback?
- Who would I work with most closely outside the team?
Questions about growth and support
Ask about development in a way that shows you want to do the current job well first.
- How is training or development supported?
- How have people in this role developed or moved on in the past?
- How is performance reviewed?
Questions about next steps
Close by making sure you know what happens after the interview, so you are not left guessing.
- What are the next steps in the process?
- When are you hoping to make a decision?
- Is there anything else I can tell you that would help?
Questions to save for later
Salary, benefits, leave and working patterns matter, but in an early interview they are often better raised with the recruiter, when the employer brings them up or once an offer is being discussed. If the information affects whether you can take the job at all, it is reasonable to ask politely and directly.
Questions that do not help
Avoid questions answered clearly in the advert or on the first page of the employer's website, and questions such as “Did I get the job?” that put the interviewer on the spot. If every question you prepared has already been covered, say so and ask about next steps.
Common questions
How many questions should I ask?
Two or three is usually right. Prepare a few more in case some are answered during the interview.
Is it all right to say I have no questions?
It is better to ask at least one. If the interview has covered everything, say that it has, then ask about the next steps.
Can I ask about salary?
Yes, though early interviews are not always the best moment. Research the range beforehand so you are ready if the employer asks you first.
Can I bring my questions written down?
Yes. Referring to a short list is normal and shows you prepared.