Job interviews aren’t just about proving you’re the right candidate—they’re also your chance to evaluate whether the company and role are right for you. Yet, many job seekers focus only on answering questions and miss the opportunity to ask meaningful ones in return.
At Indigenous Employment Australia, we encourage job seekers to approach interviews with confidence and curiosity. Asking insightful questions doesn’t just help you gather important information—it also shows employers that you’re engaged, thoughtful, and serious about the opportunity.
Here are seven powerful questions that can help you make a lasting impression and make sure the job aligns with your career goals.
Why is this position open right now?
Before accepting any role, it’s important to understand why the company is hiring. Is this a new role created due to company growth, or are you replacing someone who moved on? If there’s high turnover in this position, it might indicate challenges within the team or workplace culture. This question helps you gain insight into the company’s needs, expectations, and work environment.
One year from now, what would make you say, ‘This was one of the best hires we’ve made’?
Asking this question shows you’re not just looking for a job—you’re focused on making an impact. The interviewer’s response will give you a clear understanding of their expectations, helping you determine whether the role aligns with your skills and aspirations. It also signals that you’re results-driven and eager to contribute meaningfully.
What’s the most surprising thing you’ve discovered since working here?
Company culture isn’t always what’s advertised on the website. By asking this question, you encourage honest insights into the real work environment. The response might reveal strengths you wouldn’t have noticed—such as great teamwork or strong leadership—or potential red flags that could affect your long-term happiness in the role.
Who wouldn’t thrive in this company’s culture?
We often ask about what makes a great fit for a company, but flipping the question can give you a more realistic view of the workplace culture. If the answer suggests a rigid work environment or values that don’t align with yours, it’s worth considering whether this is the right place for you. Finding a workplace where you feel supported, respected, and valued is just as important as securing the role itself.
How does this role contribute to the company’s bigger goals?
Every role should have a purpose. You’re not just there to complete daily tasks—you should understand how your work contributes to the company’s broader mission. This question shows you’re thinking strategically and want to be part of something bigger. Employers appreciate candidates who are invested in the long-term success of the company.
What are the company’s biggest goals and challenges for the next year?
A company’s future direction can impact your own career growth. Asking this question helps you understand their priorities, potential risks, and upcoming changes. If the company is going through a major transformation, you’ll want to know how that could affect your role and whether it aligns with your long-term career goals.
How often do people in this role move up within the company?
Career progression matters. If growth and development are important to you, it’s essential to ask whether the company invests in its employees. Some organisations actively promote from within, while others have limited advancement opportunities. The answer to this question can help you determine if this role is just a job—or a stepping stone toward your future goals.
