What to Say at the End of a Job Interview When They Ask If You Have Questions
Why This Moment Matters
The final five minutes of an interview are disproportionately memorable. Most candidates say some version of “I think you’ve covered everything, thanks so much” — and leave nothing behind. Asking one or two sharp questions signals that you’ve thought seriously about the role, you’re evaluating them as much as they’re evaluating you, and you’re already thinking like someone who works there.
Questions That Actually Impress
“What does success look like in this role at 90 days, and at one year?”
This shows you’re already thinking about how to deliver results, not just how to get the offer. It also gives you genuinely useful information about their expectations and priorities.
“What’s the biggest challenge the person in this role will face in the first six months?”
A version of the same question that reveals what’s really hard about the job — and lets you respond with relevant experience if there’s an opening.
“What do the best performers on your team have in common that’s not on the job description?”
This gets at the unwritten rules and hidden success factors. It also signals that you want to be in the top tier, not just adequate.
“How has this team changed in the last year, and where do you see it going?”
Good for understanding whether the team is growing, shrinking, or in flux — and whether the direction excites you.
“What do you personally enjoy most about working here?”
Best asked to the hiring manager rather than HR. The answer is almost always candid and revealing — people tell you real things when you ask about their personal experience.
Questions to Avoid
Don’t ask about salary, PTO, or benefits in the first interview — it signals that the job itself is secondary. Don’t ask questions whose answers are clearly on their website — it signals you didn’t prepare. Don’t ask “what does your company do?” for the same reason.
Prepare Three, Use Two
Prepare three questions in case the interviewer answers one or two during the conversation. When they invite your questions, ask two — more than two can feel like an interrogation, and fewer than one is a missed opportunity. End by thanking them for their time and expressing genuine interest in moving forward.
