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This article was first published 12 years ago

10 questions every employee must ask the employer

Last updated on: November 8, 2012 16:29 IST

Image: All images for representational purposes only
Photographs: Chris Hondros/Getty Images Courtesy EduKart.com

Even though the attractive remuneration combined with added responsibilities seems to tempt you, ensure that your prospective employer has the answers to these 10 questions.

Sometimes, while searching for a job, candidates are so busy trying to sell themselves that they often avoid researching the company and the job profile thoroughly.

Before you sign the dotted line, you must analyse whether the job is a perfect fit for you or not.

Here are some questions you must ask the employer before taking up the job.

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1. Nature of work


You must enquire about the type of work that you will be doing.

Most of the times, your job description is nothing but a generalised statement that the human resource management gives.

In reality, you never get what you expect. So, be clear about the job description.

Illustration: Uttam Ghosh

2. Information about team members


You must have complete information about the team that you are going to work for.

You must have details like qualification, years of experience, and their current job functions of your teammates. Knowing the merits of a good team will surely enhance your efficiency.

Besides, work will be more fun when you know you are around talented professionals.

Illustration: Uttam Ghosh

3. Your contribution to the job


You must first ask the employer how they expect you to contribute to the growth of the organisation.

At the same time, you must also sell yourself by telling them how you think you are appropriate for the job.

Knowing the expectations of the employer also helps you set benchmarks.

Illustration: Dominic Xavier

4. Current challenges confronting the team


Ask the employer what are the problems and complexities the team is facing.

This shows your interest in the job.

Also ideally, avoid asking this question at the interview stage.

You may rather ask this question once you are on the next level and are given the opportunity to probe.

Illustration: Uttam Ghosh

5. Possibilities of career growth within the organisation


Remember the employer asking you in the interview stage: Where do you find yourself 10 years down the line?

Once you have cleared the first interview, you must ask the employer about the growth prospects within the organisation and how the job will add value to your career.

Your job must always ensure growth and development opportunities.

Illustration: Dominic Xavier

6. Facilities for training and education


Most organisations value skill development of employees and hence organise workshops, seminars and other training activities from time to time.

Some other organisations also provide opportunities to pursue higher education along with the job.

During the induction stage, you must ask the employer if the organisation provides any training and education facilities for the technology and processes you will be working on.

This could be crucial for your performance.

Illustration: Dominic Xavier


7. Organisational structure


Photographs: Gauri Nanda/Careers360

The organisational structure can tell you a lot about the corporate culture of the organisation and the hierarchy followed.

It will not only help you understand where you fit in the organisation but will also help you decide the course of career.


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8. Performance review, appraisals


Every company has its own way of evaluating the performance of its employees.

It would be advantageous to know whether the organisation follows a monthly, quarterly or yearly appraisal.

It will also help you set parameters and benchmarks you will need to excel in the course of time.

In situations where organisations do not have a process for performance review, there's immense scope for office politics.

Knowing the process well in advance helps you take the right decision.

Illustration: Dominic Xavier

9. Learning experience


Most of us join an organisation expecting to learn a few new things.

It is very important to know the kind of experience the prospective job has to offer.

You must evaluate if the job will result in any value addition to your career.

You must also ask whether you will have to travel, work over-time or be allowed to work from home.

Illustration: Uttam Ghosh


10. Incentives and benefits


Once you are in a position where you can negotiate, you must ask about the incentives you will be offered while joining the organisation.

Incentives could be in the form of health insurance, travel reimbursements and educational benefits which are offered by most of companies.

These facilties are vital for providing greater job satisfaction.

While these are a few generic ones we could think of, you may draw up a list of the things that matter to you the most.

Having the answers to some of these questions will not only help you take the right decision but also define your performance and growth in a company.

Illustration: Uttam Ghosh