Don’t Ask Recruiters What Questions They’ll Ask: Here’s Why

Job interviews can be nerve-wracking, and it’s natural to want to prepare as much as possible. Many candidates, in an attempt to feel more confident, make the mistake of asking recruiters what questions will be asked during the interview. While this might seem like a harmless inquiry, it can leave a negative impression. Here’s why you should avoid this common pitfall and focus on better ways to prepare for your interview.

1. It Reflects Poor Preparation

Asking a recruiter what questions will be asked in the interview suggests that you haven’t done enough research on your own. In today’s world, there are countless resources available—such as job descriptions, company websites, and even platforms like Glassdoor—that offer insights into common interview questions for specific roles. Relying on the recruiter to hand over the questions can make you appear unprepared and less self-sufficient. Instead, take the initiative to study the role, research the company, and understand the skills and competencies likely to be tested.

2. It Signals Lack of Flexibility

Interviews are designed to evaluate how well you can think on your feet. By asking for the questions in advance, you may come across as someone who is uncomfortable with ambiguity or who struggles to handle unexpected situations. Employers want candidates who can adapt, stay calm under pressure, and tackle new challenges confidently. Requesting the questions beforehand can suggest you may not have the flexibility they’re looking for.

3. It Can Undermine Your Authenticity

The goal of an interview is to see how you respond naturally to questions, not how well you can memorize prepared answers. If you go into the interview knowing the exact questions, your responses may come off as rehearsed and inauthentic. Interviewers can usually tell when someone is giving a scripted answer, which may cause them to doubt whether they’re seeing the real you. Showcasing your ability to think critically and respond genuinely will leave a stronger, more positive impression.

4. It Shifts Focus from the Conversation

An interview is meant to be a two-way conversation where both parties assess if the job and the candidate are the right fit. By asking for the questions beforehand, you turn the interview into more of a quiz than a discussion. This approach can make it harder for you to engage naturally with the interviewer, limiting your ability to build rapport and connect on a deeper level. Instead of focusing solely on what questions might be asked, think about how you can have a meaningful conversation and demonstrate your interest in the company and role.

5. It Reflects a Lack of Confidence

Asking for the questions can give the impression that you lack confidence in your ability to handle the interview. Confidence is a key trait that recruiters look for because it indicates that you believe in your qualifications and can handle challenges that come your way. Rather than seeking a “cheat sheet,” focus on building your confidence through preparation, practice, and a strong understanding of your own skills and experiences.

Remember: When you question, it means you have confusion. And where there's confusion, there’s no action.

6. It Reduces Your Chances to Showcase Problem-Solving Skills

One of the key aspects employers test during interviews is how you approach problem-solving. When you don’t know the questions in advance, you’re forced to think on your feet and offer thoughtful, spontaneous responses. This is a great opportunity to show how you tackle new situations and resolve challenges—a valuable skill in any job. By asking for the questions ahead of time, you miss the chance to display your critical thinking and problem-solving abilities.

How to Prepare Instead of Asking for Interview Questions

While you shouldn’t ask recruiters what questions will be asked, there are plenty of other ways to prepare thoroughly for your interview:

• Research the role and company: Start by studying the job description closely and identifying the key skills and competencies required for the role. Research the company’s mission, culture, and industry trends. This will help you understand the broader context of the role and anticipate the types of questions that may be asked.
• Practice common interview questions: Based on your research, you can predict the kinds of questions you might encounter. For example, many interviews include questions about your experience, problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and leadership skills. Practicing responses to these questions will help you feel more confident and prepared.
• Prepare your own questions: Interviews aren’t just about answering questions—they’re also an opportunity for you to ask insightful questions about the company and the role. Come prepared with thoughtful questions that demonstrate your interest and engagement.
• Focus on your achievements: Be ready to highlight specific examples of your past work, especially those that align with the job you’re applying for. Use the STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) method to structure your responses and showcase your contributions.

Conclusion

Asking recruiters what questions will be asked during an interview is a mistake that can hurt your chances of making a good impression. It reflects poor preparation, a lack of flexibility, and a lack of confidence—all qualities that employers value in potential hires. Instead of trying to anticipate every question, focus on researching the role, practicing common interview scenarios, and preparing your own thoughtful questions. By doing so, you’ll walk into the interview confident, well-prepared, and ready to handle whatever comes your way naturally and authentically.