Preparing for a job interview involves more than rehearsing your answers. If you want to make a lasting impression and improve your chances of success, you need to ask the right questions.
Asking smart and relevant job interview questions shows that you are engaged, well-prepared and serious about the opportunity. It also helps you assess whether the company, role and team are the right fit for your goals.
In this guide, we will explain why it is important to ask questions during an interview and we will share the top questions to ask in a job interview to stand out from the competition.
Why Asking Questions in a Job Interview Matters
When the interviewer says, “Do you have any questions for me?” your answer should always be yes.
Asking thoughtful questions during a job interview:
- Demonstrates genuine interest in the role
- Helps you learn more about the company culture and expectations
- Shows that you have prepared and done your research
- Builds a stronger connection with the interviewer
- Positions you as a proactive and confident job seeker
On the other hand, asking no questions or focusing only on benefits (like holidays or perks) can make you appear unprepared or uninterested.
Top Questions to Ask in a Job Interview
Here are some of the most effective and strategic interview questions to ask employers, grouped by category. These will help you stand out and give you deeper insight into your future role.
Questions About the Role
These questions show you are thinking ahead and eager to understand the job’s expectations and impact.
1. Is this a newly created role or has it existed before?
This helps you understand the role’s background and whether you will be building something from scratch or stepping into established processes.
2. What does a typical day in this position look like?
This question helps you visualise the day-to-day responsibilities and assess if they align with your strengths.
3. What are the immediate priorities for this role in the first few months?
Asking about short-term expectations shows you are already planning to make an impact.
4. What happened to the person who previously held this role?
This allows you to learn about the team’s history and the employer’s expectations.
5. How is success measured in this role?
Employers want results-driven individuals. Asking this shows your commitment to performance and accountability.
Questions About the Team and Work Environment
Understanding the team and company culture helps you decide if you will thrive in the environment.
6. Who will I be working with most closely?
This question clarifies collaboration and communication expectations.
7. How does the team fit into the company’s overall structure?
You will get insight into where you will sit within the business and how your work contributes to broader goals.
8. What is the company’s approach to team collaboration, especially in hybrid or remote setups?
This shows you are thinking practically about work styles and adaptability.
Questions for the Interviewer
Asking about the interviewer’s experience builds rapport and offers a unique perspective on the organisation.
9. What attracted you to this company and what has kept you here?
This question helps you uncover what makes the organisation a good place to work straight from an insider.
10. What’s your management style, especially when leading remote or hybrid teams?
This gives you insight into communication style and expectations, which is crucial for success in modern work environments.
Questions About the Company
Dig deeper into the company’s direction, culture and growth to see if it aligns with your own values.
11. What are the biggest opportunities or challenges facing the business right now?
This question demonstrates commercial awareness and gives you a chance to connect your skills to business needs.
12. How has the company evolved in recent years?
Shows you are interested in long-term growth and resilience, especially after significant events like the COVID-19 pandemic.
13. How would you describe the company culture?
Cultural fit is just as important as skillset and this question shows you value alignment and work environment.
Questions About Learning and Development
Employers value candidates who are committed to growth. These questions show you are in it for the long haul.
14. What training and development opportunities are available?
Demonstrates a desire to grow professionally and contribute more over time.
15. How do you support career progression within the organisation?
Highlights your ambition and interest in staying and growing with the company.
Final Interview Question
End your interview on a strong, confident note.
16. What are the next steps in the hiring process?
This practical question shows you are serious about the opportunity and ready to move forward.
Should You Ask About Salary in the First Interview?
Although salary is important, it is best not to raise it in your first interview unless the employer does. Instead, focus on showing your suitability for the role.
If you are working with a recruiter, discuss your salary expectations with them beforehand. You can also use a salary guide to benchmark appropriate ranges and prepare for future negotiations.
If You Only Ask One Question, Make It This
If the interview is wrapping up and you only have time for one question, ask:
“What does success in this role look like and how will it be measured?”
This question shows initiative, ambition and a results-driven mindset all qualities that employers value.
Final Thoughts on Standing Out in Interviews
Job interviews are more than just a chance to answer questions they are your opportunity to gather insight, show curiosity and highlight your professionalism. By asking relevant and strategic questions in your interview, you will stand out as someone who is genuinely interested, well-prepared and eager to succeed.
So before your next interview, revisit this list and choose the questions that matter most to you. With preparation and the right mindset, you will turn the interview into a two-way conversation and position yourself as a standout candidate ready to contribute from day one.
At Talenthub, we support job seekers across Australia in finding meaningful, long-term employment in the healthcare, disability and NDIS sectors. Our recruiters go beyond matching skills to roles we focus on cultural alignment, values-driven hiring and career growth. Whether you are preparing for your next interview or looking for the right opportunity, our team is here to guide you every step of the way. Let us help you find not just a job, but a place where you can thrive.