Far too often, I see or hear about people jumping into new job situations, either because they’re desperate to be employed or because they get overzealous after a really good interview.  But rushing into a job is like rushing into a relationship – a lack of knowledge about the other party can lead to disappointment.  Over at Employment Digest, Bill reminds us of this and makes some suggestions regarding how to determine if a particular job is really a good fit for you. 

·         Assess the company’s work environment by searching the web to read what other people are saying about the organization in news articles and blogs.

·         Read what the employer says about itself on its website. Online management bios can be particularly helpful. “If you learn the management of a company is all brand new, what does that tell you about the company?” says Bernadette Kenny of recruitment firm Adecco Group North America.

·         Mine the knowledge of your network, including people you know on online sites like LinkedIn.

·         Ask prospective colleagues why they like working at the company, what makes people succeed and fail, and what the culture is like.

·         Observe the company’s workspace.  Is it clean and modern?  How is the lobby maintained and how were you treated on arrival?  Do people look happy to be there?

·         Make sure you meet your prospective boss and ask about his/her working style.  Also find out how your performance will be evaluated and how success is defined.

·         Do a chemistry check.  If your instincts tell you the job isn’t a good fit, listen.

You will inevitably invest a great deal of time and energy in accepting a new position, and job jumping still doesn’t look all that good on resumes no matter how fluid the labor market is at the moment.  With a little extra forethought, you can ensure that you get the decision right the first time.