1. “Where do you eat lunch?”

At first glance, asking where the team eats lunch may seem odd; however, it can provide great insight into the company culture. “If employees consistently eat at their desks, is this because they are pressed for time and facing an overwhelming workload? Does the team boast about indulging in lengthy lunches most days, and if so, does this align with what you are seeking? Or is the office very ‘cliquey’, with no one straying from their group?” asks Rob Phelps, a career expert at recruitment consultants AI Jobs. “Lunch is a time for relaxation, and how employees spend it reflects the workplace culture and can help you to determine whether you’d be a good fit.”

2. “What do you like about working here?”

Remember: just as much as the team might be interviewing you to assess if you’re right for the role, you’re interviewing them right back to see if you’d enjoy being part of the company. So don’t miss out on the opportunity to ask more personal questions about their job and how they feel about it.

“‘What do you like about working here?’ is a brilliantly straightforward yet revealing question,” says Phelps. “If the interviewer hesitates or struggles to answer, it may indicate low job satisfaction. Equally, an enthusiastic response can inspire confidence in the company’s culture and values.”

3. “What’s something people often misunderstand about working here?”

Every job has elements that outsiders might not fully comprehend, and this question can unveil hidden workplace challenges or unexpected benefits not detailed in the job description. “Think of it as a more interesting way to ask about the day-to-day responsibilities of the job,” adds Phelps. “A job description can only provide so much information, so it’s crucial to know all responsibilities before starting the role to assess whether they align with your skills. Inquiring about the daily responsibilities gives insight into whether the expected workload is realistic and manageable.”

9 clever and unusual questions to ask in your next job interview to help you stand out from the crowd