Lesson #3 – If you’re a sun-loving plant, find a sun-loving garden
When you go shopping for plants, you’ll notice that they usually come with information about their ideal growing conditions; complete with labels reading “plant in full-sun” or “best grown in partial shade.” This labeling system helps gardeners to know which plants to buy for which locations.
Wouldn’t it be great if jobs came with “growing” labels too?
Imagine how helpful it would be to read a job posting that provided honest information about the culture of a particular work environment. Something like:
This job is tailor made for someone who craves the spotlight. If you love to be on stage and crave nothing more than the sound of applause from an adoring audience, this position is perfect. Pay is lousy, office space is cramped, and we’ve got some temperamental personalities to deal with; but you will be given daily opportunities to satisfy your inner diva.
Or…
Looking for a person who wants the warm and fuzzy rewards of helping people on a daily basis. You’ll be thanked daily by your clients and given kudos for your small acts of kindness. Ideal if you are eager to change the world at a slow but consistent pace: one day and one person at a time. Opportunities for advancement are limited but the psychic rewards are endless.
Or…
Are you willing to endure long hours, office politics and competitive co-workers in exchange for an opportunity to earn a high six-figure income? If you favor power, prestige and perks — over purpose, passion, and principles, then we have just the opportunity for you. Be warned that most people burn out after a few years. Divorce rates tend to be high and ulcers abound, but you’ll be able to afford that country club membership you always wanted.
Of course, in the real world, job postings are far less transparent; they focus more on skills, credentials and experiences, than on details about work environment. So until such time as jobs come with their own labeling system, it will be up to you to perform your own due diligence in order to get a more realistic feel for the company culture.
Do your homework and dig beneath the surface – by researching, networking and asking smart questions – you will be rewarded with a career that fits your own unique conditions for optimal growth.
Enjoy this? Here is the rest of the series:
Lesson #1: Getting Started is the Hardest Part
Lesson #2: Plant Yourself in the Right Soil
Lesson #3: If You’re a Sun Loving Plant, Find a Sun Loving Garden
Lesson #4: Don’t Wait to Reach for the Watering Can
Lesson #5: The Grass Always Looks Greener on the Other Side
Lesson #6: Say Goodbye to the Old – to Make Space for the New
Lesson #7: Take Time to Smell the Roses
Lesson #8: To Be the Best, Learn From the Best
Lesson #9: Expect the Unexpected
Lesson #10: To Everything There is a Season