When an interviewer asks, “Do you have any questions for us?” it can feel like a formality — but it’s actually one of the most important moments in the interview.

The questions to  ask at the end of an interview should be thought provoking, show how you think, what you value, and whether you’re genuinely interested in the role beyond simply getting an offer.

Having worked with leaders for many years, one of the clearest and most useful definitions of the role of the leader I’ve come across was shared with me during a purpose session many years ago. It’s a definition I often return to, especially when leadership feels complex or pressured, and it feels worth sharing here.

At its core, the role of the leader can be understood in four simple but powerful responsibilities.

Early in the year, I start thinking about what I want to achieve for the upcoming twelve months, both personally and in my business 

Why is reflection important?  

This isn’t about new year resolutions as such, it is more about a realistic plan for how I would like this year to run.  

Perhaps the most simple yet powerful reason for the coaching boom is the loss of quiet, reflective time for leaders. The modern digital environment ensures that leaders are always "on," constantly reacting to messages and meetings.

Coaching carves out dedicated, protected time for introspection—a rare commodity. It's the one meeting where the agenda is solely the leader's development and well-being. This space allows for meta-cognition: thinking about how one thinks, planning how one will plan, and leading with intention rather than habit.