Top 6 Jobseeker Questions for 2026

Have you ever been in conversation with a potential employer and something felt … off? Maybe the original job posting didn’t quite align with what you heard during your interview. Or maybe you have the vague recollection that you’ve seen this particular opportunity posted before—and not that long ago.

As a recruiter, I want every placement to be a win–win–win. A win for the org, a win for the candidate, and a win for the community being served. That only happens when both sides are transparent and asking the right questions.

So, if something feels off (or if you're just trying to get a clearer picture of the opportunity), here are 6 questions jobseekers can ask to get the real story:

1. What’s the turnover been like on this team? Or, when did the last person leave this role and why? 
   If a team of 4 has seen 3 exits in the past year, that’s worth understanding.

2. How long do people typically stay? Do people grow within the org or move on for advancement? That tells you a lot about internal culture and mobility.

3. Is this a short-term need or a long-term investment? Some roles are tied to 3–5 year funding cycles or temporary needs. That’s not necessarily bad, but you should know the full situation up front. 

4. When was your last re-org, and what prompted it? That answer reveals a lot about leadership and organizational stability.

5. What development opportunities are in place? Mentorship, stretch roles, or clear learning pathways (especially for entry or mid-level hires) are key signs of a growth-oriented culture.

6. Can you walk me through what a typical day or week in this role looks like? If the role sounds different each time it’s described (or doesn’t align with the job posting) follow up with: “What does success look like in the first 6 to 12 months?” 

Asking good questions isn’t pushy! It’s the best way to create those win-win-win placements, and to find a role that sets you up to thrive.