When preparing for interviews, job seekers often focus on answering questions well, and overlook the fact that they should also be asking smart questions about the job. Check out this article for a list of essential questions to ask a potential employer during a job interview.

A job interview is a two-way street. You’re there to impress the recruiter, but also to find out more about what the job entails. Job seekers stress over coming up with wise answers to the interviewer’s questions and often forget that they should do some asking of their own. You need to determine for yourself if you will actually enjoy working there, if you can get along with the staff, and if the position is in line with your long-term career goals.

Interviewers generally give applicants a chance to ask questions at the end of the meeting, so you need to prepare for the opportunity. Knowing what to ask in advance can ease your nerves and make you sound more confident. We’ve gathered a list of questions everyone should ask potential employers when they’re seriously considering taking the job.

What Does a Typical Workday Look Like?

This question shows the potential employer that you’re a serious candidate for the job and that you’re interested in finding out more about day-to-day activities that come with it. The answer will also give you more insight about your duties and the employer’s expectations. Will you have to supervise anyone else? Is the schedule flexible? Are you expected to follow an existing workflow?

You’ll also have the chance to get a better sense of the atmosphere at the workplace. If everybody eats lunch together, for instance, that’s a clear sign that the team already gets along nicely. If you’re expected to write reports on a regular basis, it’s a hint that the company is big on following rules and protocols. You get the idea.

Will I Be Able to Grow and Develop New Skills if I Get the Job?

Asking about training opportunities that come with the job shows the interviewer that you’re concerned about career growth. It tells that you’re a passionate and goal-oriented individual. It also emphasizes your determination to make progress within the company, which showcases passion and determination. Convincing the potential employer that you want to expand your knowledge and grow with the company can win you bonus points.

What Should I Know About the Company?

We’re not in any way advising you to ask about the company’s focus or area of activity. If you don’t know that already, your chances of getting hired are pretty slim. You need to conduct some research beforehand and show that you’re familiar with the employer’s reputation and values.

That being said, asking the interviewer for more information about the company shows that you are trying to make a connection with the organization. You can start by sharing what you already know, proving that you’ve done your homework. Then, ask if there are any other crucial details you should be familiar with. Happy employees are generally proud of the company they work for and they love to talk about the perks that come with the job. As a result, your question will likely make a good impression.

What Have You Enjoyed About Working Here?

This question allows you to connect with the interviewer on a more personal level, which can help you stand out from the crowd. If they have trouble coming up with an answer, you should take it as a red flag. It may mean that the recruiter isn’t particularly satisfied with their position, so there’s a chance other employees aren’t as well.

On the other hand, if they show genuine excitement about their job, it can mean that the company is interested in maintaining a positive atmosphere at the workplace.

Do You Have Any Hesitations About My Skills or Qualifications?

This is a pretty bold question. However, it has the advantage of allowing you to address any reservations the interviewer may have about hiring you. It also shows that you’re confident in your skills and that you know how to sell yourself, which can only work in your favor.

How Will the Interview Process Go?

Asking if you got the job right when the interview is over is a big no-no. It’s best to wait for the recruiter to let you know. In some cases though, the interview process can be more complex. You might need to go through several pre-employment assessment tests and technical interviews. This question shows you’re interested in moving forward and allows the interviewer to give you additional details about the next step.

As always, there are a few questions you should steer away from as well. For instance, asking about sick days or vacation time from the very beginning can actually cost you the job. You need to show the potential employer that you’re genuinely excited about the position, not about the possibility of taking time off whenever you feel like it. For more questions to avoid asking during a job interview, take a look here.