Do you want to impress your employer, and show you care about your professional trajectory within the company? In addition to the obvious aspect of your performance, asking intelligent and meaningful questions is an essential part of achieving success. The best employees are those who aren’t afraid to receive positive and negative feedback from their managers.
Whether you’ve just started a new job or want to advance in your current role, here are three great questions to ask your boss or manager:
What is your communication preference? Asking your manager about their preferred method of communication, as well as their desired frequency of communication, will set the tone for a positive working experience for both of you. With so many types of communications methods (email, phone calls, texting, online chatting and more), knowing how your manager wants to be reached will save unnecessary stress and aggravation. Additionally, being aware of how often your manager expects you to communicate work-related updates or concerns will allow for fluid, two-way exchange of information.
How can I improve my performance? If your goal is to ultimately advance in your role, it’s critical to ask for constructive feedback about how you can improve your performance. Seeking guidance and support from your manager about how you can work on your weaknesses and leverage your strengths will give you the knowledge and tools to excel. No matter how experienced you may be in your job, there’s always room for improvement on some level. Having an open mind and being willing to accept criticism is key to maximizing your potential.
What type of training would you recommend for my career? Because your manager will have firsthand knowledge about your abilities and competencies on the job, they will be best suited to recommend training and development. Depending on your professional goals or interests, your manager may point you in the direction of an online certification course, relevant industry group, or workplace training program. By bracing yourself with knowledge about how you can improve your skills and qualifications, you’ll be able to take better control of your career.
Making a habit of asking thoughtful questions on the job will reap many benefits for both you and your employer. Eventually, asking the right questions will come naturally, especially as you get further along in your professional journey.