Imagine this: you’re exiting an interview that you thought went really well. You leave the mahogany-clad conference table guided by a fashionably dressed, efficient admin. You reflect on the conversations that you had with the various team members — all very intelligent, clearly dedicated, with impressive professional backgrounds.
You’ve determined you like the company. But do you like the lifestyle?
How do you know what the real expectation is as far as working hours? Will you have to answer your Blackberry at all hours? Everyone you spoke with talked about the dedicated, achievement-oriented team. Just how far do they go with their dedication? Fully engaged during work hours dedicated, or miss every Little League game this season dedicated?
How can you tell the difference?
One tip: when you’re in the midst of the pre- or post-interview chit-chat, ask the interviewer what they like to do with their spare time.
One of two things will happen:
- You’ll build rapport, because everyone loves to talk about themselves and especially about those activities they’re most passionate about, or
- You’ll get a lackluster response, hesitation, or some other clue as to whether or not they actually have any “spare time.”
Either way, it’s a win. Of course, one answer to one question does not a full evaluation make. Still, it’s a good start.
How do you evaluate work/life balance when you are considering a job opportunity?
photo credit: dirkjanranzijn
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- Interview Question of the Week: The Curveball
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