You only have so much control over the environment you work in. Sure you can put mementos on your desk, but for the most part the environment – from the mood and makeup of the office to the actual lighting and furniture – is defined for you. That’s why it’s so important to seek out employers that foster the kind of environment you can thrive in. To determine just what kind of environment that is, ask yourself these questions:
Where Would You Like to Work Geographically?
Your work environment isn’t limited to the walls of the office. Would you like to work in the heart of downtown or somewhere out in the suburbs? Is it important to be able to walk/bike to work, or are you fine with a commute? Do you want to stay where you are or move to another part of the country/world?
What Times of the Day Do You Like to Work?
Professional jobs are no longer confined to 9-5 Monday-Friday. It’s now possible to find good jobs that let you work nontraditional schedules, flexible schedules, and self-assigned schedules. Ask yourself when you feel most productive and how much structure you like to have in your schedule.
What Kind of Responsibility Do You Want in Your Job?
Your actual duties have a huge impact on your work environment. Would you rather be a leader or a follower? Do you want to work as part of a team or more independently? In the past have you worked well under hands-on managers or do you prefer to be self-directed?
What is Your Ideal Office Atmosphere?
No two offices are exactly alike. Do you want to come into work in casual attire or professional dress? Do you like a laid back atmosphere or more of a hard-charging, laser-focused environment? Would you prefer an open floor plan, cubicle, or your own office? All of these factors impact your daily happiness and performance.
Who Do You Want to Work With?
Many people spend as much time with their co-workers as they do with their families. What kinds of personalities do you tend to connect with and what kinds do you clash with? Do you want to make friends at the office or maintain some professional distance? Is it important to work with people of your own generation? If you’re surrounded by people you can’t stand, you’ll quickly grow to hate your job.
So how do you determine what a working environment is like before you’re actually in it? You work with a company that has insider knowledge. Make Selectek a partner in your job search to get a deeper look at potential employers.
