Why your questions matter

The questions you ask serve two purposes: they show genuine interest and critical thinking, and they give you information you actually need to make a decision. Most candidates treat this as a formality and ask one generic question. Saying "I cannot think of anything" signals low curiosity. Prepare three to five questions before every interview, knowing you may only get to ask two or three depending on time.

Questions that make a strong impression

"What does success look like for this role in the first 90 days?" Shows you are already thinking about contribution rather than just whether you will get the job. Also gives genuinely useful information about priorities. If the answer is vague, that tells you something too.

"What are the biggest challenges the team is facing right now?" Invites honesty and signals you are not naive about the work being hard. It also gives you material for your follow-up: "Having heard about the challenges around X, I thought you might find this relevant."

More strong questions to consider

"How did the person who previously held this role progress?" Tells you about growth opportunities and culture. "What do people here find most surprising about the culture once they join?" Gets past the marketing answer to something real. Most interviewers give genuinely interesting responses because it sidesteps the defensive reflex that "what is the culture like?" can trigger. "What are the most important decisions this role will be involved in?" Decision-making authority reveals more about actual seniority and influence than a job title does.

Questions to avoid

Questions about salary and benefits in early rounds. Appropriate later once an offer is being discussed. Bringing them up in a first-round interview signals compensation is driving your interest. Questions answered in the job description or on the website. "What does your company do?" suggests you have not prepared. Do your homework so your questions start from an informed base.

How many questions to ask

Prepare five questions and expect to ask two or three. Some will have been answered during the interview. When the interviewer has covered a question you prepared, say so: "You actually answered what I was going to ask about X, which was helpful." This signals active listening.

Do not rush your questions. If the interviewer says they have time for one more, ask the one you genuinely most want answered, not the most impressive-sounding one.

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Frequently asked questions

Should I take notes during the interview?
Yes, briefly. Taking notes signals engagement and gives you material for your thank-you email and follow-up questions. A physical notebook is less intrusive than typing on a laptop. Note down specifics the interviewer mentions so you can reference them. Avoid writing so much that you lose eye contact and conversational flow.
Is it appropriate to ask about the interviewer's personal experience?
Yes, and it is often one of the most valuable questions. "What has kept you here?" or "What do you find most rewarding about the work?" gives you an unscripted, genuine view of working at the company. Most interviewers enjoy talking about their own experience and it creates a warmer close to the conversation.
What if I run out of time and cannot ask my questions?
You can ask one or two by email in your follow-up. "I had a couple of questions I did not get to ask. I would love to know [question] if you have a moment to share your perspective." This is professional and shows continued engagement after the interview.