It’s no secret that interviews can feel one-sided. Candidates rehearse answers. Interviewers run through checklists. And somewhere in the middle, we all hope we’re learning something real about each other.
But there’s one question I wish more candidates asked.
It’s this:
“What does success look like in this role — in the first 90 days, 6 months, and 1 year?”
Simple? Yes.
Common? Surprisingly, no.
Powerful? Absolutely.
Here’s why it matters:
✅ It forces clarity. If the interviewer can’t articulate what success looks like, it might mean the role isn’t well-defined, or the expectations may be shifting.
✅ It shows you’re already thinking like an insider. You’re not just asking about perks or culture; you want to deliver.
✅ It sparks conversation. It turns the interview from a Q&A into a strategic dialogue. It opens the door for you to talk about how your skills align with their actual goals, and not just the job description.
As a recruiter, I can tell you this: the candidates who ask this question stand out. They leave the room with insight, not just information. And that insight helps them follow up stronger, negotiate smarter, and start faster if they get the offer.
So, if you’re prepping for an interview this week, remember — you’re not just being interviewed. You’re interviewing them, too.
Ask the question.
You just might be the only one who does.
