Sometimes it feels like you are on the losing end of the interview. The engineer across the table is hammering you with technical questions. 45 minutes later, you've talked through the answers to some technical problems.

Then it happens. The engineer asks if you have any questions.

If you reply with a resounding "No" you may have just passed up a huge opportunity.

The time after the obligatory technical interrogation can be the most informative. You can find out if you are a culture fit, learn more about the project, ask about team dynamics, find out more about the stack, or figure out the answer to anything else on your mind.

You can use this time to directly engage the other person on a level that you normally would on the job. Treat them as a peer. You could convince that person you are a good fit for the team. If you are interviewing for a leadership role, feel free to flip the script and take command of the interview for a few minutes. "What motivates you everyday?" "What is the hardest problem you had to solve recently?" "If you could change one thing about the team, what would it be and why?"

If you're in the first panel of the day, maybe ask: "What kind of person are you looking to fill the role?" Then respond to their answer with examples of how you fulfill their version of the ideal candidate. Knowing who the team is looking for could help you progress in other panels throughout the day.

Prior to the interview it helps to make a list. Conduct some research. No matter how well you make think you know that company, recent news and events, the contents of their quarters earnings call may alter your perception. Jot down any questions you may have. Be sensible who you ask each question to, because not everybody has the answer.

This time could be the most important part of the interview. Some of the best places to work are looking for people who are creative thinkers, who are able to break the mold and innovate beyond their peers. Given the churn involved with JavaScript, some engineers want to work with others who can't stop, won't stop learning.

Asking questions demonstrates a willingness to cooperate and learn, an ability for critical thinking. Don't forget to have questions ready for every stage of your next interview. Maybe someone is waiting for you to ask the right question nobody else did.