January signifies new starts, New Year resolutions, and the desire for a new job. Are you thinking about your next move in tech? Before making a move, consider company culture, development opportunities, and the potential for career growth.
Whether you're a seasoned tech contractor or looking for a permanent role, asking the right questions can help you find a role that aligns with your career goals, values, and work-life balance. In this blog, we'll explore the key questions you should ask before taking a new job in tech, ensuring you make the best choice for your career.
If you have an interview lined up, remember interviews are a two-way street. There will be an opportunity at the end to ask questions. Being aware of your non-negotiables and taking the time to ask good questions will help you make the right move. If you’re unsure where to start, here are key questions to help you understand the role, the team, and whether it’s the right fit for you.
What are the opportunities for career development?
Before accepting a tech job, ask about training, mentorship, and progression. Clear career pathways and skills development will ensure you grow with the role and stay motivated long-term. You might want to ask your interviewer to share an example of how leadership supports professional development within the team.
How does the company support work-life balance?
Tech roles can be demanding, so it’s vital to understand the company’s stance on flexible working and wellbeing support. As hard as we try to keep our work and personal lives separate, today's reality is that we’re experiencing more of a work/life blend. According to a 2023 study by Forbes Advisor, 54% of British workers would accept a lower-paid job in exchange for a better work-life balance. Flexible working improves work-life balance. Knowing this will help you decide if the role aligns with your needs.
What is the team culture and collaboration style?
Understanding team dynamics, remote working policies, and communication practices is key in tech roles. Find out how often the team meets to share updates or feedback. Find out what tools and systems they use to ensure communication and collaboration.
How would you describe the leadership style within the IT department and organisation?
Understanding leadership style is crucial for tech roles, as it influences team productivity and your working experience. Ask how leaders provide feedback, recognise achievements, support professional growth, and encourage innovation. This will help you gauge whether the leadership approach aligns with your preferred way of working.
How approachable are managers and senior leaders for input or guidance?
Breathe’s Culture Economy 2020 report reveals that almost a third (27%) of employees quit due to company culture. Knowing how accessible leadership is can give you insight into the company’s support structure and openness to collaboration. Ask about opportunities for regular check-ins or open-door policies. These can be strong indicators of a good company culture and help you spot signs of potentially toxic leadership.
How would you describe the company culture and how success is recognised?
Understanding company culture is key to ensuring the role aligns with your values and working style. Ask about team dynamics, leadership approaches, and how success is recognised. It’s also worth checking reviews on platforms like Glassdoor—keeping in mind that while some reviews may be overly negative, patterns in feedback can give useful insights into the company’s environment.
How much autonomy will I have in my role?
Nothing is worse than feeling restricted at work, especially if you are an IT contractor used to working independently and making decisions with minimal oversight. How innovative you can be on a project, what you can say on social media, and how you’re expected to conduct yourself varies between companies. Make sure the level of autonomy aligns with how you like to work and be managed.
Find the right fit for your tech career
Before you accept a new job, make sure you understand the job responsibilities, the company’s mission, and the company culture to ensure you’re happier in the role.
At NU Concept Solutions, we understand the importance of aligning your skills, values, and career goals with the right company. By taking a personalised approach, we help you explore roles where you can grow, thrive, and make a meaningful impact in tech.