When preparing for an interview for a job, co-op or internship, it’s important to plan responses to questions you’ll likely be asked.
But it’s also wise to prepare your own thoughtful questions about the position and the company.
Beyond gaining basic information about the role, asking smart questions demonstrates your interest in the job, shows preparation and critical thinking, and empowers you to make an informed decision. Ask the right questions in an interview and you’ll not only gain valuable knowledge about the position, company and culture, but you’ll make a positive impression on the employer and set yourself apart from other candidates.
Below are some of the best questions to ask an interviewer to get you started. Customize them to suit your specific role or field.
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20 creative and unique interview questions to ask employers
- What are the top qualities you look for in a new team member that would help them thrive in this position?
- How does the company measure success for someone in this position, and what are the key metrics for this role?
- What is the biggest challenge your team is currently facing that someone in this role could help address?
- What are the most significant challenges the industry is facing today, and how does this company respond?
- What opportunities for professional growth and development can be expected in this position?
- How does the company support employees in acquiring new skills and knowledge?
- What does a typical career path look like for someone in this position?
- What is the organization’s approach to work-life balance and employee well-being?
- How does the team celebrate successes and handle setbacks?
- What are the company's long-term goals and how does this position contribute to achieving them?
- Can you share an example of a recent project where the team demonstrated strong collaboration?
- If you were hiring someone for this role today, what would be the most important thing they need to know about the team dynamics?
- Where do you see the company heading in the next five years, and what role will this position play in achieving that vision?
- Can you describe the team dynamic and how this role collaborates with other departments?
- What are the core values that drive the team culture, and how are they reflected in daily work?
- How does the company encourage employee engagement and work-life balance?
- What are the most impactful projects or initiatives that someone in this role would be involved in?
- What are the key goals and deliverables expected in the first few months?
- What level of autonomy and decision-making authority does this position have?
- What is one tip you wish you knew when you first started working at this company?
Key points to remember when choosing unique interview questions
Align with your interests: Ask questions that are relevant to your career goals and the specific role you are interviewing for.
Be thoughtful and engaged: Avoid generic questions and actively listen to the interviewer's response to follow up with further questions.
Show your research: Demonstrate that you've done your homework about the company by asking questions related to recent developments or industry trends.
Focus on the future: Ask questions that indicate your interest in long-term career growth and development within the company.
In summary, asking meaningful interview questions helps you demonstrate your interest, professionalism and preparation, while also enabling you to assess whether the job and company are a good fit for you. It’s an opportunity to gain valuable insights, avoid surprises and ultimately make a more informed decision about your career path.
