Explore the most important questions to ask before signing your employment contract—from job duties and compensation to career growth.
Why It’s Important to Ask Questions Before You Sign
Signing a job contract is a commitment. Asking clarifying questions ensures that you fully understand what’s expected of you, what the employer offers, and avoids surprises later on. Employers generally appreciate confident, informed candidates who approach the process thoughtfully.
Clarify Your Role and Responsibilities
“What Are My Key Job Duties?”
Ask for a detailed overview of your role: day-to-day tasks, reporting lines, and performance expectations. A clear job scope means less ambiguity down the line.
“Are These Primary Duties Subject to Change?”
Understand how flexible your role is: are you expected to take on additional responsibilities over time, or rotate between functions? This helps assess long-term fit.
Understand Compensation and Progression
“What Is the Breakdown of My Total Compensation?”
Beyond base salary, ask about bonuses, overtime, and performance incentives. Open conversation helps set realistic expectations.
“Is Salary Reviewed or Updated Annually?”
Ask if there is a formal performance review process, and how pay increases or promotions are handled.
“Are Bonuses Guaranteed or Discretionary?”
Understand whether bonuses are linked to individual performance, team metrics, or company profit.
Benefits, Leave and Work-Life Balance
“What Benefits Do You Offer?”
Ask about health insurance, retirement plans, travel allowances, and other perks like cell phone or data subsidies.
“What Is Your Leave Policy?”
Clarify vacation days, sick leave, and maternity/paternity provisions. Some employers offer additional compassionate or study leave.
“Do You Support Flexible or Hybrid Work?”
If you value work-life balance, ask whether remote, hybrid, or flexible hours are accommodated.
Workplace Culture and Support
“Describe the Team I’ll Be Joining”
Ask how the team is structured, whether staff turnover is high or low, and what type of leadership and mentorship is available. This helps you understand company culture.
“How Do You Support Onboarding and Development?”
Understand orientation programmes, mentorship initiatives, and training schedules. A good employer invests in new hires.
“What Are Your Core Values or Working Principles?”
Asking about values—like integrity, customer focus, or innovation—helps gauge whether your personal beliefs align with the organisation.
Performance Metrics and Career Growth
“How Is Performance Measured and Communicated?”
Ask about key performance indicators (KPIs), review cycles, and feedback methods. You deserve clarity on how success is determined.
“What Opportunities Are There to Grow or Be Promoted?”
Understand internal development paths, whether leadership or specialist tracks are available.
“Do You Support Further Study or Certifications?”
Some companies contribute financially or with study leave for relevant qualifications. If this matters to you, ask about support.
Employment Terms and Flexibility
“How Long Is the Probationary Period?”
Probation affects notice periods, benefits, and contractual protections. Know how long it lasts and how it’s evaluated.
“What Is Your Notice Period and Termination Process?”
Clarify how much notice you must give, how you can exit the role, and how termination is handled for both parties.
“Is This Role on a Fixed Term or Permanent Basis?”
Understanding contract type helps you plan long-term—especially important if you’re seeking stability or visa-related clarity.
Policies, Ethics and Legal Considerations
“Are Your Policies Documented in a Handbook or Portal?”
Include workplace code of conduct, anti-harassment policies, grievance procedures, and confidentiality obligations.
“Do I Have Non-Compete, Non-Disclosure or IP Obligations?”
Ensure you understand post-employment obligations that may limit your future options.
“How Do You Manage Confidential or Personal Information?”
This question is particularly relevant in customer-facing or data-sensitive positions.
Facilities, Tools and Working Environment
“What Equipment and Tools Will Be Provided?”
Know if you’ll receive a laptop, phone, software, protective gear, or a vehicle. Understand what is expected to be self-supplied.
“Where Is the Workplace Located and Is Travel Required?”
Clarify working hours, site location, travel allowances, or mileage reimbursement—especially if your role requires off-site duties.
“Do You Offer Remote Work or Flexible Hours?”
If part-time, hybrid, or remote work is important to you, check whether it’s permissible and on what terms.
Team and Management Interaction
“Who Will I Be Reporting To?”
Ask about the management style of your direct superior and how communication and reporting are structured.
“Is There a Buddy or Mentor Assigned During Onboarding?”
Many employers assign a mentor or peer to help integrate new hires—ask if that is part of the support package.
“How Does the Team Handle Feedback or Conflict?”
Understanding communication flow and culture gives insight into how collaborative and positive the environment is.
Salary Timing, Payroll and Logistics
“On What Date Will I Be Paid, and How Is It Processed?”
Knowing the payday schedule helps with financial planning. Ask about payroll frequency, deductions, and expense reimbursement procedures.
“Is There a Mobile App or Internal Portal?”
Ask whether you’ll use an online platform to access payslips, leave forms, or policy documents.
Thoughtful Questions That Show You’re Invested
Here are a few high-quality open-ended questions:
- “What kind of impact would you expect me to make in the first 90 days?”
- “What challenges has the team faced this year, and where do you hope I can contribute?”
- Employment opportunities
- “Can you describe someone who has succeeded in this role previously, and what made them stand out?”
Common FAQs About Asking Questions
- Is it okay to ask these during negotiation?
Yes—seeking clarity is professional and shows you’re serious about wanting to succeed. - How many questions are too many?
Aim for clarity—not interrogation. Prioritize top concerns: responsibilities, compensation, and culture. Save others for follow-up. - What if the employer seems uncomfortable?
If the hiring manager cannot answer a question, they may refer you to HR. Professionalism matters more than knowing everything upfront.
Summary Table: Key Areas to Ask About
| Area | Recommended Questions |
|---|---|
| Role & Responsibilities | Key duties, scope flexibility |
| Compensation & Benefits | Remuneration breakdown, bonuses, pay reviews |
| Growth & Development | Promotions, study support, performance evaluation |
| Contract & Policies | Probation, termination terms, legal obligations |
| Work Environment | Remote work, equipment, travel, team dynamics |
| Culture & Expectations | Onboarding, leadership, company values, feedback methods |
Final Thoughts: Asking the Right Questions Builds Confidence
Having an open, professional conversation before you sign your employment contract empowers you. You’ll better understand what’s expected, feel more secure in decision-making, and enter your role fully aware and ready to succeed.
Solid preparation shows commitment and confidence—qualities most employers respect and reward. Ask thoughtfully, listen carefully, and make the best employment decision for your future.
