Before You Take a Job, Look at the Values-Fit

Google, Facebook and Apple get a lot of hype as great places to work, and they all have many positives. However, before choosing your next place of employment, there’s something vitally important that you need to look at: the Values-Fit. In other words, what are that company’s core values and guiding principles, and do these translate into something that works for you? And, just as importantly, do you have access to insider knowledge regarding what is really going on “behind the curtain” of a potential employer? If you work with me as your recruiting expert you do. In fact, one of the things that sets me apart is my ability to provide the type of insider knowledge that can help you land your best job yet.

Before looking for new opportunities, determine what Values-Fit works best for you. Be brutally honest with yourself in respect to what you value at work. Because this is so critical, I suggest you also brainstorm your needs with a close friend who can provide candid feedback as to your likes/dislikes and core values in a work environment.

For example, are you a career- and money-motivated person with very few commitments outside of work who is looking for a hot startup and willing to work 60+ hours a week? Are you a single parent who puts a high value on work flexibility and the ability to work from home? How about the classic “work-life balance” where leaving a little early on a weekday to coach your child’s soccer team is not frowned upon? I know of some companies that emphasize that they provide work-life balance…but then when people use that phrase during interviews there, in reality, that phrase is the kiss of death.

I also work with many job candidates who are members of minority groups. In these cases, even if the company says that they promote from within and value a diverse work force, my insider knowledge regarding whether or not they have a proven track record in this area can be invaluable.

In summary, whether you’re looking at a job opening at a mature company or a high-octane startup, I can provide the necessary insider information to help you find the Value Fit that is right for you. Whatever your preference, don’t take a job at a company with “type A” core values when your needs are “type B.”