Before accepting a startup marketing job, ask specific questions to assess the company's stability and culture. Start with customer engagement. If the marketing team isn’t actively talking to customers, they’re missing critical insights. Understanding the company's financial health is essential. Inquire about their runway and burn rate to gauge how long they can operate before needing more funding. Net Dollar Retention (NDR) is another key metric; high retention indicates customer satisfaction, while low retention signals potential issues with the product. Evaluate the openness of the leadership team, especially the CEO, regarding public engagement. If they’re reluctant to represent the company in interviews or events, it may reflect a lack of confidence in the product. Questions about the company’s stance on AI reveal their willingness to innovate. If they’re hesitant or dismissive, that could hinder progress. Other important queries include the clarity of marketing metrics and the company's long-term goals. Understanding what metrics the marketing team owns and the biggest challenges they face can reveal how aligned they are with broader business objectives. The article emphasizes the importance of a strong foundation in both customer understanding and data-driven decision-making. It points out that many startups focus on growth without fully understanding their unit economics or customer needs. If leadership struggles to answer these questions or avoids discussing metrics, it’s a red flag. The author also suggests additional questions, such as identifying top competitors and the company culture within the marketing team. An environment where experimentation is encouraged is crucial for a marketer's success. The overall message is clear: thorough due diligence can prevent joining a company that's more about appearances than substance.