Good questions to ask at an interview

Why is it important to ask questions at an interview?

Going to an interview is not just about answering the right questions – it’s also about asking the right questions. Good interview questions help you get a clearer picture of the role, the employer and the expectations, while showing commitment, curiosity and professionalism.

In this post, we’ll look at why it’s important to ask questions in an interview, what questions are good to ask, what questions you can expect to be asked yourself and how to best prepare. The aim is for you to feel confident in the interview situation and be able to make an informed decision about the next step in your career.

Key points

• Why it is important to ask questions at an interview
• Examples of good questions to ask at an interview
• How questions show engagement, curiosity and professionalism
• What questions you can expect to receive from the recruiter
• How to best prepare for the interview
• Tips for formulating questions that feel natural and relevant
• Common mistakes to avoid in the interview situation
• Dos and don’ts before an interview
• How the right questions help you make a well-considered career decision

Why is it important to ask good questions at an interview?

Asking thoughtful questions during an interview serves several important purposes. For you as a candidate, it’s about understanding the role, the work environment and the employer’s expectations. For the recruiter, your questions signal commitment, interest and that you are taking the interview seriously.

Candidates who ask questions are often perceived as more informed and motivated. It shows that you have thought about whether the role is actually right for you – not just that you want the job at all costs. At the same time, asking questions helps you avoid making the wrong decisions, for example by clarifying responsibilities, working methods and development opportunities.

Not asking any questions at all can in some cases be interpreted as a lack of interest or preparation. Therefore, it is important to see the interview as a conversation where both parties evaluate each other.

What questions should you ask?

When thinking about good questions to ask in an interview, it is wise to start from three areas: the role, the team and the organization. The questions should help you understand what the day-to-day life is like and what is expected of you.

Examples of questions you can ask:

• What is a typical working day like in this role?
• Which goals are most important in the first year?
• How does the team work together today?
• What is the induction process for a new employee?
• What are the long-term development opportunities?

Formulate the questions in an open and curious way. Avoid yes and no questions and show that you have done your research by linking the questions to information you have already read.

Common questions recruiters ask you

During the interview, you can expect to be asked both general and more specific questions. Often it starts with classic questions like:

• Tell us about yourself
• What prompted you to apply for the post?
• What are your strengths and areas for development?

Many recruiters also use behavioral questions, for example:
“Can you give an example of a situation where you dealt with a challenge?”

The aim is to understand how you act in practice. Feel free to prepare examples in advance, but try to answer naturally and adapted to the conversation. When questions about salary, conflicts or weaknesses come up, it is important to be factual, self-critical without devaluing yourself and to keep a professional tone. Body language and the way you express yourself play a major role in the overall impression.

How can I best prepare for an interview?

A successful interview starts long before you enter the room. Preparation gives you confidence and makes it easier to be present in the conversation.

Start by reading up on the company, its values, operations and industry. Then create a list of your own questions to ask and prepare answers to common interview questions. Practice presenting yourself briefly and clearly, preferably focusing on what is relevant to the role.

Also make sure that practical details are in place – the right attire based on the company’s culture, time and place, and any documents such as CVs or work samples.

Dos and don’ts for the interview:

✅ Get there on time

✅ Have concrete examples ready

✅ Show commitment and curiosity

❌ Talk negatively about previous employers

❌ Being unprepared

Executive summary

Asking good questions at interview is an important part of the process. It helps you make the right decision, while showing commitment and professionalism.

Preparing both answers and questions will increase your chances of making a strong impression and give you a clearer picture of whether the role and the employer are right for you.

Remember that the interview is two-way – it is as much your opportunity to evaluate the company. Be curious, informed and dare to ask questions.