Top 50 Interview Questions Candidates Should Ask in an Interview
Savage Search Associates believes that the right questions can make or break an interview. Thoughtful, strategic questions not only demonstrate your interest in the role but also ensure you leave with the information you need to make the right decision.
Below, we’ve outlined the Top 50 Questions you should ask—categorized to help you better understand the position, the company, and the culture.
1. Questions About Responsibilities & Expectations
These questions help clarify your day-to-day responsibilities and how success will be measured.
- Can you describe what a typical day in this role looks like?
- What are the key responsibilities for this position?
- What does success look like in the first 30, 60, and 90 days?
- How will performance be measured and evaluated?
- What are the most immediate projects or priorities for this role?
- Can you tell me about the team I would be working with?
- Are there any challenges or roadblocks I should expect when starting?
- What tools, systems, or processes are in place to help me succeed?
- How does this role contribute to the company’s overall success?
- How much autonomy or collaboration is expected in this position?
- What’s the typical decision-making process like for this role?
- Can you give examples of specific skills or qualities that will help someone excel here?
- Are there opportunities to take on additional responsibilities as I grow in this role?
- What is the most important problem you’d like this role to solve?
- How often do team priorities or job duties change?
2. Questions About Company Culture & Work Environment
These questions help you learn whether the company’s values, culture, and working style align with your own.
- How would you describe the company’s culture in three words?
- What’s the leadership style of the team or company?
- How does the company celebrate successes or milestones?
- Can you describe the work environment—would you say it’s more collaborative or independent?
- How does the company approach work-life balance?
- Are there opportunities for team-building activities or company events?
- What are the company’s core values, and how are they demonstrated daily?
- Can you share an example of how the company supports employee well-being?
- How diverse and inclusive is the workplace?
- What’s something you personally enjoy about working here?
- How would you describe the management team’s communication style?
- Are there mentorship programs or ways to connect with colleagues across departments?
- What’s the employee retention rate, and what steps does the company take to keep employees engaged?
- How does the company encourage feedback and innovation?
- Can you share an example of a recent success story or exciting initiative?
3. Questions About Career Development & Growth
These questions demonstrate that you’re thinking about the long-term and are serious about growing within the company.
- What opportunities for professional development are available (training, courses, etc.)?
- How does the company support internal career growth and promotions?
- Can you tell me about someone who has grown within the company recently?
- What does the career path for this role look like?
- How does the company invest in developing its employees?
- Are there opportunities to take on leadership roles or special projects?
- Does the company offer support for continuing education or certifications?
- What are the company’s goals for growth in the next 3-5 years?
- How can I best contribute to help the team or company achieve its long-term goals?
- Are employees encouraged to cross-train in other departments or roles?
- How does this role align with the overall mission and vision of the company?
- Can you share insights into the company’s future plans or new initiatives?
- What are some qualities or traits you’ve seen in employees who have advanced quickly?
- How often are performance reviews conducted, and what’s that process like?
- Is there an opportunity for me to shape or expand this role over time?
4. Questions to Close the Interview
These questions help you wrap up the interview on a strong note.
- Is there anything about my background or skills that gives you pause?
- What are the next steps in the interview process?
- When can I expect to hear back about a decision?
- Is there anything else I can provide to help you with the decision-making process?
- Do you have any final thoughts about how I might fit into the team?
Final Thoughts
Asking the right questions allows you to leave the interview with confidence and ensures that the role aligns with your career goals. By thoughtfully exploring responsibilities, culture, and growth opportunities, you demonstrate your enthusiasm and leave a lasting impression.
