Smart Questions to Ask Your New Boss

Starting a new job can be exciting and nerve-wracking. You're eager to get started and create an impression that would, hopefully, create a good rapport with your new manager or boss.

How do you go about it?

One way to do that is to come prepared with some smart questions to ask during your first or subsequent meetings, such as when doing a performance evaluation.

But, first, you need to take time and understand your new manager and learn what they prefer and don't. This way you can help to manage up.

When a new manager joins an organization or a company, they would like to implement their leadership style as quickly as possible and ensure they're on the same page as their employees. Their management style may allow open communication with employees.

Asking your manager questions is crucial for building a solid professional relationship with them and gaining knowledge about your role. These actively help you recognize areas of improvement and opportunities for professional growth.

Please do not neglect the value of your manager's experience and the valuable insight it provides for your career trajectory. Make sure to take advantage of this resource to ensure your success.

This article will explore some intelligent questions you can ask your new boss.

10. If you had a sudden influx of cash for the company, how would you allocate it?

This question can reveal your boss's definition of success and's priorities and values. Many professional and personal projects require financial investment to succeed. When money is not a limitation, it offers a glimpse into the company's and industry's direction. Typically, the response will provide insight into the boss's vision for the company's future.

11. Can you suggest the most effective way to share my feedback or ideas?

Understanding how to approach your manager with concerns can improve your communication style, teamwork, and positive company culture. Your manager's preferred method of contact, whether an open-door policy or email communication, can be influenced by their personality and leadership style.

Knowing this can help establish a functional working relationship that yields positive results. And when you receive feedback, you can work on a few areas that need polishing.

12. How can I be a team player and add value to the organization?

This question will enable you to clarify your role, align with your boss on expectations, and strategically prioritize tasks and efforts. Managers often fail to clearly and explicitly articulate their top priorities, how they see team members fitting in, and what they most need from them. Understanding this quickly will help you deliver where it matters most.

13. What would you do if you were in my shoes?

Posing this question can assist your manager in comprehending your viewpoint and demonstrate that you esteem their proficiency. It also fosters a constructive bond between you and can enhance your comprehension of how your manager perceives, senses, and behaves, irrespective of the validity or sagacity of their counsel.

14. I am eager to enhance my potential. Can you offer any advice?

According to Hermina Ibarra, Author of Act Like a Leader, influential leaders excel at coaching and mentoring their team members; one way to encourage your boss to take on this role is by requesting an evaluation of your potential development. This entails focusing on your current performance and what you can accomplish in the future.

In today's world, where reskilling and upskilling are essential for career advancement, it's crucial to broaden your horizons and be receptive to reimagining your skills. Additionally, asking this question will clarify the promotion and advancement criteria, allowing you to be pragmatic and objective in your career goals.

15. How can I elevate my performance?

Asking this question early in your role can prompt your boss to provide valuable guidance on bridging the gap between your current performance and expectations. While many managers avoid conflict and strive to maintain positive morale, seeking constructive feedback can help you identify improvement areas and progress toward your objectives. 

16. What advice can I get in my current position?

While you may have your own goals, gaining an outside perspective from someone already in your current position is always helpful. They can provide clarity and direction and give you actionable steps to take. This is especially true if they are only a step or two ahead of you in their career.

For instance, getting there can seem challenging if you're starting in an entry-level position and aspire to be a CEO someday. But someone in a position closer to yours can offer visible short-term goals to work toward.

17. What is your work-life balance?

This can be an excellent question to ask for your own career good. By revealing their work-life balance, your boss can give you vital tips that you incorporate. Moreover, it passes the message that you understand about work and life boundaries.