The 8 Best Questions to Ask at a Job Interview in 2024

Making a list of insightful questions to ask at the end of an interview is an essential part of preparing for an interview.

Asking questions not only shows the interviewer that you’re interested in the job, it also gives you an opportunity to learn whether the company aligns with your values and provides you with the best opportunity to grow.

Below are the top 8 interview questions designed to not only express your enthusiasm and initiative to prospective employers but also critically assess if a company is the right fit for you:

1. How has your company adapted to recent industry changes or trends?

Showing interviewers that you’re aware of industry trends indicates that you stay up-to-date on information relevant to your career and that you’re capable of adapting to changes.

Additionally, an interviewer’s response to this question can give you a lot of information about how adaptable or cutting-edge the company is.

By inquiring about how a company adapts to trends, especially in areas like AI, you can position yourself as a candidate who’s not only aware of industry shifts but also prepared to navigate them effectively.

2. What two or three qualities define a top performer at your company?

Asking this question signals your ambition to join the team and excel in it.

By understanding what makes a top performer, you’ll get a sneak peek into the core values and behaviors your potential employer cares about — and what you could potentially do well at if hired.

Also, specifying two or three qualities helps keep your interviewer’s answer focused and gives you a clearer sense of what’s essential for the role.

Continuing the dialogue will not only show that you’re enthusiastic and engaged but also provide you with more valuable information about the company’s expectations and how they evaluate performance.

3. How does your company foster professional development and career growth?

During an interview, you’re probably just focused on securing the job, but it’s also necessary to think about your future career trajectory. Can this company be a step forward in your career?

Asking this question will help give you the information you need to decide whether the job you’re interviewing for supports your long-term goals.

According to LinkedIn’s 2023 Workforce Learning report, employees prioritize “progress toward career goals” as their top motivation to learn.

By demonstrating a long-term career vision during interviews, you position yourself as ambitious and dedicated.

4. Can you share more about the specific team that I’d be working with if hired?

This question is a great way for you to find out if your skills will complement or enhance the existing team.

After learning more about the hard and soft skills or interpersonal dynamics of your potential coworkers, you’ll have the opportunity to highlight any of your skills that could bridge a gap or provide additional support.

With teamwork, communication, and critical thinking showing up as some of the most in-demand skills of 2023, familiarizing yourself with your team’s dynamics beforehand will help you onboard smoothly and promote a collaborative and productive work environment.

5. What do you think is the most challenging aspect of this job?

Asking about potential challenges in the role gives you a heads-up about any issues or red flags that might turn you off from the company.

Plus, it’s a chance for you to show off your transferable skills by discussing any relevant experiences you have dealing with a similar challenge.

6. Can you describe the company’s culture and core values?

Finding a company whose culture aligns with your values is essential for job satisfaction and long-term success. By asking about culture, you’re not just looking to fit in, but to thrive and contribute meaningfully.

For example, feeling recognized and valued is crucial for many employees. A 2023 Gallup survey found that when employees feel recognized, seven in 10 of those workers feel a strong connection to their company’s culture.

On the flip side, a recent McKinsey survey highlighted reasons employees leave jobs: feeling overlooked by leaders, seeing limited growth opportunities, and not finding their tasks meaningful. These are critical factors to consider when evaluating a potential employer.

7. What do you personally enjoy about working here?

Asking the interviewer about their own experiences offers a unique window into the company’s culture. It not only fosters a personal connection and keeps the conversation positive, but also gives you genuine, firsthand insights.

Geoffrey Scott, Hiring Manager and Career Expert at Resume Genius, says:

“A candidate’s curiosity about my personal journey or individual experiences within the company speaks to their commitment to building meaningful relationships. It’s a refreshing approach that I always love to see.”

As Scott puts it, this question showcases your genuine interest toward people in the organization and speaks to the value you place on interpersonal connections and team dynamics.

8. Could you share a piece of career advice based on our conversation today?

Asking this question not only showcases your eagerness to grow as a professional but also creates a memorable moment with the interviewer.

It’s different from standard interview queries because you’re emphasizing broader career aspirations and showing that you value the interviewer’s personal insights.

Politely requesting for advice is a testament to one’s commitment to personal and professional development. According to Scott:

The best candidates are hands down those who are always eager to learn and grow. Asking for career advice shows me this applicant is bold but humble, looking for knowledge, and proactive in their approach.

– Geoffrey Scott, Hiring Manager and Career Expert at Resume Genius

Even if you’re a seasoned professional, this question highlights your commitment to continuous learning and valuing diverse viewpoints.

Want a quick recap of what to ask after your interview? Check out this short TikTok video below for questions to consider:

@resumegenius Asking questions at the end of an interview is the best way to find out if a company is suitable for you. Here are some questions you SHOULD ask at interviews! ✅ #interview #interviewtips #interviewquestions #jobsearch ♬ original sound – Resume Genius | Career Advice

Sources

• Gallup, “Empowering Workplace Culture Through Recognition”
• LinkedIn, “2023 Workplace Learning Report”
• McKinsey, “The Great Attrition is Making Hiring Harder. Are You Searching the Right Talent Pools?”
• Resume Genius, “1 in 4 Workers Prefer Interacting with AI Instead of Humans”
• Resume Genius, “Communication Named #1 Soft Skill in AI-influenced Workplace”

About Resume Genius

Since 2009, Resume Genius has combined innovative technology with leading industry expertise to simplify the job hunt for people of all backgrounds and levels of experience.

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