Original article written by Addison Group and published on Addison Group
“Do you have any questions for me?” is often the last thing a hiring manager will ask you during a job interview. This is not just a polite formality, it’s your moment to shine. It’s important to have a line of questions prepared to express your interest in the role and show you’ve done your research on the company.
So how do you prepare the kind of questions that leave a lasting impression? Here are five ways to prepare smart, thought-provoking questions that will set you up for success during your next interview.
Do your homework
Before you walk into the interview (or log into that video call), research the company thoroughly. This means:
- Read recent news articles or press releases.
- Review their website and social media.
- Look into their competitors and industry trends.
Armed with that knowledge, you can craft questions such as:
- “I saw your team recently expanded into the European market. How has that shift influenced your day-to-day operations here?”
These types of questions show that you’re thinking beyond the job description and allow the interviewer to expand on company details.
Focus on the role and team
Dig deeper into what success looks like in the position you’re applying for. Smart questions might include:
- “What would success look like in the first 90 days for someone in this role?”
- “Can you tell me more about the team I’ll be working with and how this role supports their goals?”
Not only do these help you better understand the role, but they also demonstrate your desire to contribute meaningfully from day one.
Ask about culture and leadership
Culture fit at an organization goes both ways. You want to make sure the company’s values align with your own.
- “How would you describe the company culture in a sentence or two?”
- “What’s something you personally enjoy about working here?”
And if you’re meeting with a manager or executive, consider:
- “What’s your leadership style, and how do you typically support your team’s growth?”
These types of questions open the door to candid, insightful conversations and allow you to see if the company is more than just a fit on paper.
Think strategically
If you want to really stand out, think beyond the immediate role and tap into the bigger picture:
- “How does this department contribute to the company’s long-term goals?”
- “What are the biggest challenges the team is facing right now, and how could someone in this role help solve them?”
These questions signal that you’re not just looking for a job, you’re looking for a position to stay in long-term and you’re ready to make an impact.
Avoid the obvious (and the awkward)
Yes, salary and benefits are important. But unless prompted, save those questions for later stages or HR-specific conversations.
Avoid asking anything you can easily find online. For example:
- “What does your company do?”
- “Who’s your CEO?”
Instead, use what you’ve learned to ask something more nuanced:
- “I read about your shift to a hybrid work model – how has that impacted collaboration and team dynamics?”
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Check out full article on Addison Group
