Work-life balance looks different for everyone. But it can be loosely defined as a healthy division between career obligations and everything else, such as time for your friends and family. Finding the right work-life balance for you can help you avoid burnout, increase your career satisfaction, and ensure that your important relationships don’t fall by the wayside. Here are a few ways to tell if a company you’re considering provides a positive work-life balance.
How Do You Find a Company with a Work-Life Balance That You Want?
Read Reviews
Sites like LinkedIn and Glassdoor offer real-world reviews from current and former employees. You can get a sense of the company culture from these reviews, including work-life balance. But remember that not all reviews are entirely accurate. Look for general trends rather than putting too much stock in any single review.
Ask Questions
Your interview is an excellent time to seek more information about work-life balance. You can ask directly or get there through related questions about what it takes to be successful at the company. You can even ask for a copy of the employee handbook, which may describe the metrics the company uses to measure success.
Play Detective
During your interview, pay attention to non-verbal cues, as well as to what is left unsaid. Does the hiring manager seem nervous when talking about work-life balance? Did you ask a direct question about personal days, only to get a rambling and evasive answer? Or is the hiring manager excited to share information about the company’s vacation policies and other work-life details?
Determine Your Priorities
No single job is going to meet all of your dream expectations. One might offer a better work-life balance but involve a long daily commute. Another might offer a significantly higher salary, but fewer days off. Work-life balance is an important factor, but exactly what it means to you and whether it trumps other considerations is something that only you can decide. If you receive multiple job offers, eliminate any that come with dealbreakers. Then rate the others according to your own personal criteria and choose the one that feels like the best fit.
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If you’re ready to jumpstart your career, Pirate Staffing can help. Take a look at our open opportunities or simply submit your resume today!
