When it comes to job search and preparing for a job interview, most jobseekers largely focus on the type of interview questions that they need to be aware of and prepare for them diligently. But, when it comes to the part of the interview where the hiring manager or your interviewer asks you “do you have any questions for us?”, many job seekers are either unable to think of a question or simply say no.

This is the most common misstep in interviewing. Interviewers are looking for your engagement level – are you really interested in the role. Asking questions and actively listening for cues is the best way to stand out from other candidates.

Job interviews are an excellent opportunity, not just for an employer to know their future team member but also for the applicants to know more about the position and company they are interviewing for. And this part of the interview is a great chance to ask some good questions.

Read our Ultimate Jobseeker's Guide to prepare for your next interview!

This can not only help you ask more details about your role and the company but also to come across as someone genuinely interested in a role, to your interviewee. If you are unsure of what are the right questions to ask, here are 15 questions you can choose from. Don’t ask all 15, pick the ones that resonate with your opportunity, the company, and the interview.

1. What gave rise to this role? Is it a new role or am I replacing someone?
2. What are some analytical/transferable/technical skills that past employees have needed to succeed in this role? (applicable only if it's not a new role)
3. What are some personality traits that you are looking for in a person who works in this role?
4. What will my typical day look like?
5. How would you describe the company culture?
6. Can you please describe the onboarding and training process?
7. What are some things your company is doing to ensure diversity & inclusion in your teams?
8. Are there any team-building activities carried out in your company?
9. What kind of learning opportunities can I expect in this role?
10. Would there be an opportunity to move up in my role when I am ready to accept additional responsibilities?
11. What do you like the most about working in this organization?
12. How would you describe the leadership team of the company?
13. How is the organization aligning its plans with its future goals?
14. What kind of challenges does the company foresee in its future plans?
15. Is there anything in my experience or skill set that makes you think I may not able to perform? (or) Are there any gaps in my experience that seem concerning to you? (or) Is there a question that you felt I did not answer adequately, or you would like to know more about?

Bonus tip: One of the best ways to make the most out of this chance is to strike a chord with the interviewer. When preparing for an interview, go through the company’s latest plans, press releases, or news and ask a related question. For instance, if the company recently launched a new product, you could ask a question about the product.

If no such specific news or updates are available, make sure to read the company’s resources such as a case study, article, or a whitepaper and mention what did you like about it.

In any job interview, missing out on the opportunity of asking relevant and meaningful can sometimes be misconstrued as a lack of interest by your interviewer and ultimately affect the outcome of your job search. Asking questions demonstrates your curiosity, drive, and keenness about the role, something that all employers are looking for in their future hires.

Check out more Jobseeker resources here.