Job interviews in 2025 are no longer solely about impressing interviewers with your response—the depth of your questions also comes into play.
Asking thoughtful, purposeful questions can transform the attitude of an interview, demonstrate preparation, and even determine whether the company is a good fit for you. Not all questions, though, will be effective. Let’s take three that are effective—and how to build upon the ensuing conversation.
1. “What does success look like in this role after 6 months?”
Why it matters: You’re not seeking the job—youthink you should be a master of it. This question demonstrates initiative, focus in targets, and serious interest in contributing.
What it tells you: It provides you with a glimpse of expectations from the manager and whether or not they’re even realistic. It also reveals how performance is being monitored (whether they’re monitoring it or not).
Pro tip: After they answer, you can then counter back:
“Those are my strengths, especially in [specific skill]. I’d love to learn more about how your team greets new hires into that ramp-up phase.”
2. “How is the team dynamic?”
Why it matters: A wonderful company with a lousy team isn’t going to be worth much to you in the long run. This one is about company culture, team, and communication—without asking outright about “culture,” which tends to elicit qualitative responses.
What it tells you: Pay attention to how explicit or dodgy the response is. Real teams are not perfect, and truthful hiring managers will admit that.
Pro tip: Bridge the gap by responding with:
“Sounds like the type of team I’d excel on. My best performances have been where [mention something they said].”
3. “What do you want others to understand prior to working with this company?”
Why it matters: It shows self-awareness and emotional intelligence—and that you’re not just after money. You’re interested in the facts about working there.
What it tells you: This question often reveals unspoken norms, challenges, or growth opportunities within the company. And it tells the hiring manager that you’re thinking long-term.
Pro tip: Thank them for their honesty, and if their answer aligns with your goals or personality, say so.
Why This Matters in 2025
As the nature of the job market evolves and more interviews happen asynchronously or with machines, the moments of humanity during an interview are more important than ever. Asking good questions is one of the only things that are fully in your control. And in a tight job market, curiosity is a strong differentiator.
Final tip: Write down ahead of time questions, and phrase them in terms of the company and position. Don’t ask what is easy to respond t ask what will assist you in making the best choice for your own career.
Need more interview advice? Read our job search blog series for candidates navigating the 2025 hiring process.