When you start a new job, it’s exciting to jump right into the nitty gritty, and sometimes it’s easy to forget to ask important questions. A new job means new responsibilities, new rules and a new culture to grow accustomed to. So when you are hired and you know what your position will be, here are a few general topics to ask your employer about. These will help you be happy, safe and successful at your new job.
1. Ask About the Employee Handbook
When you are hired, a human resources representative or your supervisor will inevitably tell you to read your employee handbook. Since this is kind of a vague instruction, ask for your own copy and read it on your own. Like – actually read it. From beginning to end. Highlight any points that you have MORE questions about. This may answer any questions you have about vacation time, maternity or paternity leave, sick time or any other issues that weren’t covered in your interview. These questions will let your employer know that you are invested in your future with the company.
2. Ask Industry-Specific Questions
Whether you are in the service industry, an office or an industrial job, there are probably questions that are specific to your particular occupation. Ask about how your company encourages communication with unhappy clients. Does your office have a paperless system? Find out. Ask questions that pertain directly to your niche! In an industrial position, ask if your competitors use die casting or sand casting. If you’re in fashion ask what silhouettes are en vogue. Your employer will be hella impressed with your commitment to ongoing learning!
3. Ask About Safety Training
For certain jobs, a certain amount of danger is part of the gig – like deep sea fisherman and coal miners! Odds are, you’ve recently been hired on in an office, but that doesn’t mean safety should be disregarded! Something as simple as knowing the fire escape route or what to do in case of an emergency can be beneficial to you and your coworkers in case of emergency! There is no harm in taking safety seriously, and way more harm in ignoring it completely in the long run.
4. Ask About Professional Development
I’m sure in your interview you discussed growth potential like the responsible adult you are. Bravo. This shows you’re willing to be there for the long run and you don’t plan on leaving any time soon. You should also ask about how you can develop professionally. Perhaps your company will invest in educational resources or conferences. You don’t want to miss out on anything that will help you do your job better!
5. Ask About Your Priorities
Confirm what your priorities should be for your job. Ask your boss what they expect from you. Ask what projects or initiatives they want to see in progress or completed in the next few months. This shows your willingness to work hard and excel in your position.
6. Ask How You Can Succeed in Your Position
Finally, you should flat out ask how you can be successful in your position. Success looks different for everyone. You could ask your supervisor what the employee before you did to be successful at his or her job. Don’t shy away from this one – it will be so beneficial for you and your employer in the long run. You might also want to ask about the culture of the workplace. In order to be successful, you will want to understand the company’s values and how they handle their employees. This will help you grasp what success looks like at your particular company.
These questions will not only help you, but they will also show your employer you’re willing to go above and beyond! Exceeding expectations will make your new employer happy and also prove you’re going to be one of the best employees they have! Bringing in cookies always helps the cause, too!
