Here are some smart and impactful questions you can ask during a job interview, organized by themes:

Questions about the Job

• What does a typical day or week look like in this role?
• What are the most immediate projects that need to be addressed?
• Can you show me examples of projects I’d be working on?
• What skills and experiences are you looking for in an ideal candidate?
• What are the biggest challenges someone in this position would face?
• How does this position contribute to the company overall?
• Do you expect the main responsibilities of this position to change in the next six months to a year?

Questions to Build Rapport with the Interviewer

• How long have you been with the company?
• Has your role changed since you’ve been here?
• What’s your favorite part about working here?
• What challenges do you occasionally face in your job?
• What part of your job are you most excited about in the coming months?

Questions about the Company

• What direction do you see the company heading in over the next few years?
• What are the current goals the company is focused on, and how does this team support those goals?
• What are the company’s most important values, and how do they manifest in the workplace?
• What’s the leadership style like here?
• How would you describe the company culture?

Questions to Impress the Employer

• What’s the biggest problem you’re hoping the person in this role will solve?
• What are your expectations for me in this role?
• What’s the most important thing I should accomplish in the first 90 days?
• How can I best support the team?

Questions about Team, Training, and Progression

• Can you tell me about the team I would be working with?
• What training and progression opportunities are there?
• Is there a regular performance review process?

Questions to Avoid

• Avoid questions about salary, company basics, or benefits that can be found online.
• Avoid questions about time off or hours early in the process, as these can give a negative impression.

These questions not only demonstrate your interest and preparedness but also help you gather critical information to determine if the job and company are the right fit for you. Tailor your questions to the specific interview and company context for the best effect. If you want, I can help you draft personalized questions based on a particular role or company you are interviewing with. Let me know!