How to assess good job fit.

Simple questions like "Am I happy here?" Or, "Could I be happy here?" are not always so simple to answer.

Our work - our relationships too! - are multi-layered and nuanced.

They aren't usually all great or all bad.

We might even have a tendency to question the basic premise of those simple questions - "is happiness really the most important thing?"

When simple questions get complicated by our capacity to see all the gray area...I like to go hunting for new questions.

Questions that allow our minds to answer more freely.

For instance - if you are evaluating a workplace ask yourself:

"Do you want to be more like the people that work here?"

If you are evaluating whether or not to stay, this question can help clarify your long term plans.

Many years ago, I distinctly remember reading the quote - "You are the average of the 5 people you spend the most time with" by Jim Rohn - and realizing that I liked my boss in many ways but his negativity and pessimism were starting to rub off on me. I didn't like that. And I ultimately found a new role.

During the interview process with a new organization, this question can help you see your preferences more clearly.

A former client of mine recently described a job she was interviewing for - it checked all the boxes - more money, better title, a chance to use her expertise. But she found the company, the interviews, and the people boring.

It was hard to admit it because they seemed like good, nice people. But she wasn't excited by them. (She didn't take the job).

If you are already in a job, guided by this question, you can may be able to influence the group dynamic.

One client created a "no complaining about work" rule for after work happy hours because she was noticing a troubling trend of complaining as a way of connecting.

Dennis and I have instituted similar no complaining rules for our afterwork check-ins.

Now of course there are many other questions that can steer your final decision about staying or leaving a team or organization.

But I think this one is important.

What other interesting questions do you use to assess your current situation - at work or in relationships?

Much love,

Marijke Ocean

P.S. Are you trying to decide if it is time to make a change?

Some clients that work with me have found more growth, satisfaction, and peace in their current jobs. Others have found new jobs that are refreshing and inspiring.

​Schedule an explore coaching session to see if working with a coach could help you get the clarity and peace of mind you want about that decision!