6 Questions to Ask in Your Interview to Find Out What It’s Really Like to Work There

When you’re interviewing for a new job, it’s easy to feel like the pressure is all on you to impress. But here’s something we want you to remember:

You’re interviewing them too.

Here at Working Parents Connect, we believe finding the right job with the right environment plays an important role in our overall wellbeing. It’s about working somewhere that aligns with your values, supports your growth, and respects your life outside of work. So, we work closely with employers to understand their true culture before undertaking our search, and we encourage every candidate to do the same.

The interview isn’t just a chance for the employer to decide if you’re the right fit – it’s your opportunity to assess whether they are the right fit for you. In fact, asking smart, thoughtful questions is one of the most effective ways to learn about a company’s culture, leadership and growth opportunities, particularly if these details haven’t already been outlined in the job description or easily found on their careers page.

Here’s how.

Start With What Matters to You

Even before submittng your application, you should have an understanding of what you want from your next role and the type of workplace environment that you thrive in. So take a moment to reflect – what does a “great place to work” actually mean for you?

Ask yourself:

  • Do I want structure, or do I thrive in flexibility?

  • Is team collaboration important, or do I prefer independent work?

  • What kind of manager helps me do my best work?

  • Is flexibility around hours or location a non-negotiable?

Remember to do your research, too. An organisation’s employer branding on their careers page and social platforms will give you a great sense of what employee life is like, their values and personal stories. Ues these as an opener in your interview when asked “Do you have any questions for us?” to show you have done your research and seeking further information.

Choose from These 6 Workplace Culture Questions

It’s unlikely you’ll be given full transparency on an organisation’s culture and leadership so it’s important to use the below questions as a guide only and to take the responses with a grain of salt. Choose one or two based on the angle you would like more clarity on.

1. “How is information shared across the organisation and within departments?”

This opens up a conversation about collaboration, communication, and team dynamics. Listen for authentic examples over buzzwords and clarity on workflows or tools. A well communiated team is a good sign!

2. “What do new employees typically find surprising after they start?”

Instead of asking “How would you describe the culture here?” this question encourages interviewers to dig a little deeper for an answer and will often result in a personal response from their own experience, rather than a corporate line.

3. “What does flexibility look like here day to day?” (if not already mentioned)

Every employer says they’re flexible these days — but you want to know how it plays out. Can people adjust their hours? Work remotely? Take time off without guilt?

4. “How do managers support career growth and development?”

You want to hear if they offer coaching, learning opportunities, or clear pathways forward.

5. “How does the company handle feedback or conflict when things don’t go to plan?”

This question touches on psychological safety — a key element of healthy workplace culture. You’re listening for transparency, support, and respect.

6. “If I were to start tomorrow, what would be my biggest challenge in the first 90 days?”

Great for surfacing expectations, onboarding support, and how realistic the workload may be.

Tips for Asking With Confidence

  • Bring a notebook: It shows you’re prepared and helps you remember key details.

  • Pick your moment: If you’re in a panel or time-limited interview, you don’t need to ask all seven. Choose two or three that matter most.

  • Don’t fear the silence: If a question catches the interviewer off guard or they seem vague, that’s information too.

Remember, a company with a strong, genuine culture will welcome your questions — because they care about mutual fit.

Sometimes the most revealing part of an interview isn’t what’s said — it’s how you feel.

  • Did they seem engaged and respectful of your time?

  • Were they open to your questions, or did they rush past them?

  • Did their answers feel rehearsed or real?

Looking for your next job?
Working with a recruiter at Working Parents Connect can be the edge you need. We’ll work with you to find the right role and organisation, help with interviewing and guide you through the process. Contact us directly or register for job alerts here to get started.