As a career coach, I help my clients figure out the best careers for their unique package of experiences, personality traits, skills and interests. But, when it comes to lasting career satisfaction, finding the "right" fit is as much about how you work as it is about what you do. A top-notch boss, a compatible team of co-workers and/or the opportunity to enjoy a healthy work-life balance can turn a mediocre work assignment into a truly enjoyable job.
If you're in the market for a new position, here are three interview questions that might help you to better evaluate prospective employers (without appearing to be overly concerned about work-life and flexibility issues):
1) What do you enjoy most about working here? This can be a deceptively simple way to learn about a company's culture. In general, happy employees are eager to share positive information about their employer and will answer this question with enthusiasm. Disgruntled employees are more likely to answer this with a routine response (e.g. "This is a nice company" or "Management treats us well") without offering examples or elaboration.
2) How does this company compare to other places you've worked before? Hopefully this answer won't won't be only about profits and products. Listen for references to work-life benefits, flexibility, teamwork, opportunities for training and development, recognition programs and other features that demonstrate the company's commitment to being both an "employer of choice" and a profitable company.
3) What makes your company unique? This question gives employers an opportunity to choose what they want to emphasize. Some employers will tailor their response to focus on their products and services. But other employers, particularly those who place a premium on work-life satisfaction, will see this as an opportunity to boast about their unique culture, mission and/or benefits.
