The interview is not all about answering questions asked of you. Your intelligence and interest in a position is tested based on the questions YOU ask. You should have at least three to five questions prepared. Here are four of the most creative questions I have heard that you should consider for your next interview:

(1) What is the history of the position?

This will give you key insight about whether the firm or company is looking for a replacement or if this is a new position. It can also give you information about turnover and open the door for questions about the type of candidate and qualities that have worked (or have not) in the position.

(2) How is the feedback process structured?

How will you know if you are doing a good job? Ideally you don’t want to wait until year-end to get feedback about your progress, especially in a new position. This question gives you insight about the communication style of management and the formality of their evaluation criteria and processes.

(3) You come to me in one year (or 6 months/90 days) and tell me I am doing a stellar job and exceeding expectations. What did I do?

First, this question sets a positive tone and automatically associates the potential employer with thinking of you as a winner. Second, you get to know the priorities for the position, and the specific criteria the employer values in terms of success.

(4) Do you have any questions or concerns about moving me forward in the process? If so, I would like to be able to address them.

This is a bold question. It opens the door for the interviewer to be forthright about any concerns. It also allows you to be able to address them in the moment.