jobNot Every Job Is Worth Having

We all know that the interview process is primarily about the employer assessing whether or not they want to hire you. The truth is, you are supposed to be doing the same. There are, of course, questions you should be asking in the interview to get information on everything from the job to your potential supervisors and the company’s direction as a whole. But there are some things that you can simply observe before the job interview even starts that may clue you in as to whether you should turn and run. Now, before you get huffy, I know that everyone’s pocketbook status is different. So yours may be a case of “I would run if I could afford to, however …”. But trust me when I tell you that there are some employment situations that will be worse for you than a few late notices. While the final decision would be up to you, here are some things you can pay attention to that may help you go into a job situation more aware.

So, you have arrived at the employer’s office (15 minutes early, I hope). You have been greeted by the receptionist and now you are sitting in the waiting area. Don’t zone out completely. This a good opportunity to observe the surroundings. If you have already prepped for the interview (and as my sister would say, YA BETTAH HAD!!!), then you can take that time to put up your antenna to get a sense of your environment. Is the reception area continuously experiencing traffic by people complaining about their boss, their job, or just gossiping? It is amazing how few people who do these things try to disguise it or even pay attention that others you have no business hearing it can hear them. Take a listen to get an idea of what you are potential future coworkers are like.

It is now time to call you back for the interview. Perhaps they are walking you through an area where most of your future coworkers are housed. Watch their body language. Look at their faces. Do they look motivated? Do they look satisfied? Do they look happy? If the pervasive look is one of despair and wanting to escape, put this into your decision matrix.

What about the physical space? Is the job in a shoddy or unkempt building? Is the furniture falling apart? If you prefer a serene environment, then what about plants and artwork while performing your job?

Happy workspaces do in fact exist. True, no job or employer is perfect. But to toil away for 8 to 10 hours every – – – single – – – day in a place that drains you? Well, you could be back on the market in 6 months just to maintain your sanity.
But again, everybody’s pocket and past due notice stack is different. You gotta “do you”, right?