It helps to understand the company's situation and progress, and to make sure you get the "right" type of options and are aware of any vesting periods or other

It helps to understand the company's situation and progress, and to make sure you get the "right" type of options and are aware of any vesting periods or other conditions that might apply. Try to have access to the latest balance (could be feasible, depending on the role you are joining with) and growth figures. Personally, I would not value them at zero but rather as something closer to a performance based bonus with an extra risk.