The Best Questions to Ask in a Job Interview (+ the One That Could Seal the Deal)
When it comes to job interviews, your questions matter just as much as your answers.
Too often, candidates treat the end of the interview like a polite formality—asking generic questions that don’t leave a lasting impression. But smart job seekers know the right questions can do more than show interest—they can reveal strategic thinking, emotional intelligence, and even change the outcome of the interview.
According to Harvard Business Review, “questioning is a powerful tool for unlocking value in organizations”—and job interviews are no exception.
At LTO Consulting, we don’t just help supplier teams build strategy—we also coach individuals on how to lead with clarity, confidence, and the leadership presence needed to stand out. Because in competitive industries, how you show up in an interview is as important as what’s on your résumé.
Whether you're stepping into your first sales role or interviewing for a leadership position, here’s your interview checklist of powerful, intentional questions to ask—including the #1 question I always save for the end.
✅ Before You Walk In: Know Your Strategy
Before diving into the questions, remember your goals:
Understand the expectations of the role
Uncover whether the team and culture are a fit for you
Show you’re proactive, coachable, and collaborative
Leave a strong final impression
✅ Smart Questions to Ask About the Role
What does success look like in this role after 90 days? Six months? A year?
Why it works: Shows you're results-driven and thinking long term.What are the biggest challenges someone in this role would face?
Why it works: Demonstrates your willingness to tackle tough problems head-on.Can you describe a typical day or week in this role?
Why it works: Gives you a practical understanding of the workflow and expectations.
✅ Insightful Questions About the Team and Culture
How would you describe the team dynamic here?
Why it works: Helps you gauge if you’d thrive in the environment.How does leadership support professional growth and development?
Why it works: Signals that you're invested in learning and staying engaged.What do people love about working here—and what keeps them challenged?
Why it works: Balances enthusiasm with realism. You're not just chasing perks.
✅ Questions That Show You're Thinking Like a Leader
How does this role contribute to the company’s larger goals?
Why it works: Shows you’re thinking beyond the job description.Are there any upcoming changes or initiatives this team will be a part of?
Why it works: Demonstrates agility and interest in being part of growth.What would make someone not succeed in this role?
Why it works: Gives you insight into dealbreakers—and shows self-awareness.
✅ The One Question That Can Shift the Entire Interview
10. “Before we wrap up, do you have any hesitations about my experience or fit for this role? Anything you’d like me to clarify or expand on?”
Why this question is a game-changer:
This is your shot to turn doubts into discussion. It puts the elephant on the table and gives you a final chance to address any unspoken concerns.
💡 If they say no?
Close strong. Let them know you're excited, confident, and ready to contribute.
💡 If they share a hesitation?
This is your moment to respond with clarity, expand on your experience, and shift their perspective.
At LTO, we coach clients to approach every conversation like a leader—not with arrogance, but with ownership. As James Clear says in Atomic Habits, “You do not rise to the level of your goals. You fall to the level of your systems.” Great interviewing is about preparation, mindset, and structure.
At LTO, We Coach You to Lead with Confidence
We help brands and individuals alike build systems that scale and leadership that sticks. Whether you're a founder pitching your vision or a rep interviewing for your next opportunity, we help you communicate clearly, close gaps, and stand out.
Let’s Build Together!
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