Nearing the end of your interview, you hear the inevitable question: “Do you have any questions for me?”. This simple prompt can hold the power to make or break your chances. Yet, surprisingly, many candidates respond with a simple “no.” Don’t miss this golden opportunity to shine within the interview itself!

Here are some useful questions you can ask to stand out, impress your interviewer, and address any lingering doubts about your fit for the role.

Why has the position become available? 

This is a good way to identify exactly why the company is advertising the job – is it a new position within an expanding company, or is the previous person leaving, and why?

What is the management structure and style of the company or department?

You can assess exactly how much responsibility you will be given in your new role, as well as find out how organised the company is and whether its way of working will suit you and vice versa.

Can you describe what my typical day would be like in this role?

This can help you identify which areas of the role you will spend most of your time doing and whether this matches your expectations.

Is there anything you would like to improve about the company that you feel I can help with?

This question will open a discussion with your interviewer about just how valuable you could be to the company. It will give you a chance to share any ideas you might have while giving the impression that you care about the company’s future and want to be a part of it.

How would my performance be measured or reviewed?

This question can provide insights into exactly how you can impress the employer, help identify their priorities, and present yourself as a performance-driven individual.

What type of training opportunities do you offer?

Thinking about how you can improve your suitability for the job through skill-building is not a sign that you are underqualified – it shows that you are dedicated and want to help the company move forward by progressing yourself.

What are the company’s goals for the next year, and how does this role contribute to achieving them?

This question demonstrates a link between your interests and the company’s mission. It helps reveal your desire to understand the broader context of the role and how your work will contribute to meaningful outcomes.

What opportunities for growth and progression exist within this role or the company?

This displays ambition and a long-term mindset, signalling to the interviewer that you see this as a potential career path, not just a job. It also provides valuable insight into whether the company supports employee development, which can be a major factor in job satisfaction.

Do you have any reservations about my application? Is there anything that would prevent you from hiring me?

This is a risky question, but if you feel the interview is going well, asking your employer if they have any doubts about you there and then means that you can quickly put them at ease and dispel those doubts.