You’re not just a job seeker — you’re someone with values, skills, and goals. Think of your next interview as more than just a chance to answer questions. It’s your opportunity to lead the conversation and find out if this organization is truly right for you.
The right organization will share your vision and give you the support you need to thrive. But how do you figure that out in a one-hour conversation?
It all comes down to what questions you ask in the interview. The ones that make you feel inspired, excited, or even relieved because you know you’re making the right choice.
We’re here to help. As longtime employers in the Las Vegas valley, we’ve conducted a lot of interviews and we want to share what we’ve learned.
This guide will help you navigate the interview process with purpose. You’ll discover what to ask, what to avoid, and how to walk away feeling confident that you’ve found your next home. Let’s get started.
Why You Should Interview The Company
Finding a job isn’t just about impressing an employer. It’s about figuring out if they’re the right fit for you.
This is especially important when you’re considering a nonprofit or mission-driven organization. You’re choosing to dedicate your skills and time to something that matters deeply to you. It should feel like a partnership, not a compromise.
The interview is your chance to ask questions, uncover details, and see if the organization truly aligns with your values. It’s not about being pushy, but about being intentional with the questions you ask.
First, Reflect On What Matters To You
Before walking into any interview, you need clarity on what’s important to you. Imagine you’re designing your ideal workplace — what’s at the top of your wish list? Is there anything that’s a dealbreaker?
Maybe you need flexible hours to work around other commitments, or perhaps you’d like to work from home some days. Maybe you need to feel connected to your team’s purpose and vision.
Consider what you want and need your life to look like. Here are some questions to guide your reflection.
- What values do I want my workplace to share with me?
- How much structure or flexibility do I need in my day-to-day role?
- What kind of people do I want to collaborate with?
- Do I thrive on challenges, or do I prefer a steady pace?
Write these down. Don’t overthink it. Your answers will help frame your priorities and stay focused during the interview.
And while you’re doing this exercise, remember that the experts at Indeed’s Career Guide agree — they say that asking thoughtful questions about the company and job also allows you to showcase your intelligence and ability to think independently, making you a more active participant in the interview.
What Questions To Ask In An Interview
Now, if you’re wondering what questions you should ask in an interview, you’re already one step ahead. Mark Simpson, from The Interview Guys, says that asking unique questions in your interview will “not only help you stand out from the competition, but give you a chance to gather some powerful insights about the company, its culture, the job, and so much more.” Here are some ideas to get you started.
1. Company Culture
Culture is the invisible thread that ties a workplace together. It’s in the way people treat each other, solve problems, and celebrate wins. Try asking some of these questions in your interview to get a clearer picture.
- “What does a typical workday look like here?”
- “Are there regular team meetings or events to foster connection?”
- “How does the organization support inclusivity and diversity in the workplace?”
- “Can you share an example of a challenge the team has faced and how they handled it?”
When you ask your questions, listen carefully — do they mention collaboration, transparency, or support systems? Are their answers specific or generic? Specificity usually signals authenticity.
2. Role And Success Metrics
Your role isn’t just about tasks — it’s about impact. Make sure you understand what’s expected of you and how you’ll fit into the bigger picture. Try to ask questions that lead to specific, quantified answers. For example:
- “Why is this position open? Is it a new role, or am I replacing someone?”
- “What does success look like in the first three, six, or twelve months?”
- “What kind of feedback or support can I expect as I settle into the role?”
Why do these questions matter? They help you understand the organization’s needs and priorities. They also signal whether there’s a clear plan or if you’ll be figuring things out on your own.
3. Mission, Vision And Values
This is where nonprofits shine (or stumble). Their mission should be more than a buzzword. Dig a little deeper with your questions and listen for stories or examples that highlight a strong connection to the mission and consistency between what’s on their website and what they’re telling you.
Consider questions like:
- “What inspired the founding of this organization, and how has its mission evolved?”
- “How does the leadership ensure the team stays aligned with organizational values?”
- “What are the long-term goals for the organization?”
4. Career Development
Growth isn’t always about climbing a ladder. Sometimes it’s about learning, stretching your skills, and feeling fulfilled. To gauge opportunities, try asking about professional development and promotion opportunities.
- “What kind of professional development resources are available?”
- “How are promotions or new opportunities communicated within the organization?”
- “Are employees encouraged to take on new challenges outside their job description?”
Pay attention to whether they invest in their team’s growth and if they seem enthusiastic about helping employees thrive.
5. Team Dynamic
The people you work with can make or break your experience. The questions you ask in an interview about team dynamics can get really interesting. Consider the different situations that may bring you together.
- “What’s the team’s approach to brainstorming or problem-solving?”
- “How are disagreements typically resolved?”
- “Can I meet or learn more about the team I’d be working with before making a decision?”
Why it’s worth asking:
- Teams with healthy dynamics are more productive and enjoyable to work in.
- A willingness to introduce you to potential colleagues shows confidence in their team.
How To Ask About Sensitive Topics
Pay, benefits, and time off. Let’s be real — you need to know this stuff. But bringing it up too soon can seem transactional.
Instead, look for clues. Research whether the organization lists salary ranges in its job ads. If possible, observe how current employees talk about their work-life balance during casual conversations.
When the time is right, there are some questions to ask in a later or final interview. You can frame your questions intentionally without being too blunt.
Questions to ask in a final interview:
- “What’s the organization’s approach to rewarding and recognizing employee contributions?”
- “How does the company prioritize employee wellbeing?”
💡 Tip: Avoid asking direct questions about salary or perks in early interviews.
Quick Tips For Neurodivergent Job Seekers
Do social cues or unstructured conversations make interviews extra challenging? You’re not alone. Interviews can be unpredictable, but with the right preparation, you can create a process that works for you.
Start With A Plan
Write down your key questions and bring them with you. This gives you a roadmap and helps you stay focused, even if the conversation drifts. Structured questions like, “What does a typical day look like for this role?” or “How does the team communicate project updates?” can guide the discussion and reveal valuable insights.
Ask For Examples
Instead of broad questions like, “What’s the team dynamic?” try something specific: “Can you describe a time when the team overcame a challenging project?” Clear examples make it easier to visualize the environment and understand how the team works together.
Know Your Needs
If you require accommodations, it’s okay to ask. Frame it positively: “How does the organization support accessibility in the workplace?” Inclusive employers will welcome this conversation, and their response will give you a sense of how well they understand diverse needs.
Look For Signs Of Inclusivity
Pay attention to the interviewer’s tone and openness. Do they seem patient, empathetic, or eager to understand your perspective? Inclusive organizations often try to create a comfortable, supportive atmosphere during the interview.
Why this matters: Finding an inclusive workplace means joining a team that values you and what makes you unique. The right organization will appreciate your perspective and ensure you have the tools to succeed.
Questions To Avoid Asking In Interviews
Not every question works in every situation. While you want to uncover the important information, there are some things to be aware of. Don’t ask about:
- Salary, benefits, or perks in early stages (save these for later).
- Questions that sound critical, like “What’s the team’s biggest weakness?” Focus on building a connection first.
Did you know? The nonprofit sector has seen significant increases in salaries to remain competitive. For instance, in the U.S., nonprofits reported average salary increases of almost 6% for all staff in 2022. The private and nonprofit sectors are converging.
And the benefits? They cover Health, Dental, Vision, Professional Development and Retirement Planning. Nonprofit Advancement surveyed 58 nonprofit organizations and 78% of respondents reported that benefits had remained stable in the last two years.
Next Steps
Interviewing a nonprofit isn’t just about landing a job. It’s about finding your place in a mission that matters to you. Ask questions that align with your values. Pay attention to the details. Trust your instincts. When you’re ready, learn about our mission and discover job opportunities in Las Vegas.
