Communications of the ACM
Consider Your Future Coworkers Before Taking a Job
Credit: Lifehacker
In a difficult hiring environment, it's tempting to jump at any job opportunity without thinking twice about your personal and professional development. However, keep in mind that the people who you'll be working with will play an important role in influencing job satisfaction. There are several questions you should ask before taking a new job, each of which focuses on the people you'll be working with and for: Can you learn from them? Are they invested in your growth? Can you trust them? How focused are they on creating value for the organization? You should also consider whether senior leaders within the organization could mentor you and help you overcome potential problems.
People often worry about whether or not their new position will be interesting enough, prestigious enough, or pay enough in terms of compensation. While those are worthy considerations, instead take time to ask about the people at the company. Did you meet the team you would be working with? Are these people you feel good about working with day in and day out? How focused are they on value creation?
Asking these questions is helpful in both large and small company settings. Jobs aren't about companies, or paychecks - they're about people that you see everyday, spend more of your waking moments with than your loved ones, so it's vitally important that you play for the right team. People who've got your back, who won't waste your time with petty politics or passive-aggressiveness, and who you feel comfortable being your fullest self with because that's how you can be successful at your job. And when you are with a team that allows you to be successful, you will find yourself learning, smiling, getting paid and performing at a high level.
From Lifehacker
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