Asking great questions at the end of an interview earns you valuable insight and demonstrates your professionalism, thoughtfulness, and commitment to the job. So what is it about asking questions that makes confident interview candidates choke? Too often, candidates don’t prepare questions, they blank under the stress, or they miss opportunities to follow up on questions that naturally arise during the interview. But not you! You can maximize your interview presence by showing up with these powerful questions.

Why is this position vacant?

Whether this is a new or recently vacated position, you’ll want to know why it’s open. A new position is self-explanatory, but if the position is freshly free, ask follow-up questions: Why did the predecessor move on (internal promotion = good, rage-quit = bad)? How have the job duties been covered in the interim? If this position had five folks turn over this year alone—or if no one has been managing the duties for six months—that might be telling.

What would like accomplished in the first six months?

This is a valuable question to discover the expectations for a position, especially a newly created one that must quickly fill a need. Instead of the job description’s routine responsibilities, you’ll get a glimpse of the company’s goals and immediate intent for this position. Then you can shine the spotlight on your fabulous fit and value-add.

What are the expectations for managing workload?

Many jobs have enough work to keep you busy 24/7, so how will you know when you’re clear to go home for the day? Learning the company’s stance on working outside of typical office hours will give you powerful insight into the company’s culture.

What part of this role has the toughest learning curve?

The technology, internal procedures, or even the org chart might be the biggest challenge. Identify where you’ll need to focus, and then ask for advice on how you can quickly reach maximum efficiency.

Do you have any concerns that I am the best fit for this position?

This is a bold question not everyone will feel comfortable asking (or answering), but it can give you one last opportunity to address your fit with the role and to dissuade any reasons to not hire you. You won’t get a chance once the interview ends!

Bonus questions

If you’re feeling extra bold, you can also ask the interviewer about their own experience with the company: What is challenging about their job? What do they like most about their work? How would they describe the company’s culture? Do they feel like their feedback and opinions are valued? This is an opportunity to connect with your interviewer and to investigate life at the company.

In conclusion

No choking for you, now you’re prepared with a list of inspired interview questions that will make you look thoughtful and engaged. You’ll be sure to close the interview on a high note!