TALK TO YOUR BOSS

HERE ARE NINE QUESTIONS YOU SHOULD ASK YOUR BOSS:

We all know the job market totally stinks right now. With that in mind, here are NINE QUESTIONS you should ask your boss . . . in order to stay on their radar and demonstrate that you're working hard.

#1.) How will we gauge my success in three, six or 12 months? You need to know which tasks are most important to your boss and what, specifically, is required of you . . . so you don't waste your time and your boss's money.

#2.) How do you prefer to communicate and how often? You don't want to bug your boss with every little detail . . . but you don't want to seem like you don't care either. This question should prevent either of those things.

#3.) What does my career path look like at this company? If you already know your boss is happy with your job performance, this question demonstrates you're interested in making a long-term commitment to the company.

#4.) What areas do I need to develop in, to advance my career? This shows you're proactive . . . and interested in making something happen for yourself. And asking for specific feedback demonstrates you aren't just assuming what your weaknesses are.

#5.) What's our top priority? If you've got ten projects on your plate, it's helpful to know which are most important . . . in order to budget your time correctly.

#6.) Let me see if I understand this correctly . . . am I missing anything? Summarizing what your boss has told you demonstrates you're paying attention . . . and can help prevent stupid mistakes.

#7.) What are my strengths? In order to move up in the company, you need to know where your strengths lie, right?

#8.) What can I do to help you? After you've completed all your own work . . . asking this shows the boss you're willing to go above and beyond for the sake of the company.

#9.) I'm working on X, Y and Z. Do you think I can handle this task? Your boss might not know how many projects you're juggling . . . and getting a little input should help inform your priorities. Plus, it'll show the boss just how hard you're working. (CNN)