Ten Questions Worth Asking Before You Say Yes
Being invited onto a Project can be flattering. Before you agree, it helps to know what you are agreeing to.
You do not need to interrogate anyone or insist on a formal job description. These questions simply help you and the Project begin with a shared understanding. You may not need to ask them all at once, but you should know where the answers will come from.
1. What is the Project trying to achieve?
Ask for the practical outcome, not only the system or process being delivered.
2. Why have I been asked to take part?
Find out what experience or perspective you are expected to bring.
3. What exactly will I be expected to do?
Clarify whether you will advise, review, test, consult or make decisions.
4. How much time will it take?
Discuss meetings, preparation, deadlines and your existing workload.
5. Who has agreed my availability?
Check that your manager understands the commitment and competing priorities.
6. What decisions can I make?
Separate giving an opinion from approving something for the Business.
7. Who else should be involved?
Identify colleagues, other teams and people affected by the change.
8. Who can explain things or help me?
Ask where to go for clarification, support or an escalation.
9. How will my input be used?
Understand how feedback becomes requirements, decisions or actions.
10. What happens next?
Leave with a clear first step, contact and realistic timescale.