Title: Are Jobs in 2024 All About Working Overtime?
Content:
I’ve been to 5 interviews in the past 2 months, and each time I ask about work-life balance, I get a negative response. I keep my questions professional, but I don’t want to end up in a sweatshop.
Here are the type of questions I ask tactfully:
- Why did the role open up?
- What is a typical day like?
- Are there any new projects?
- What are the usual working hours?
- How big is the team?
- What is the turnover rate of the team?
Despite their reactions, these are pretty standard questions. I also bring up family when talking about hobbies, and it seems like they don’t like that either. I do this on purpose to see if it’s a sweatshop environment with lots of overtime that wouldn’t fit a family person like myself.
Interestingly, they mention they have families as well, but I sense they are looking for someone who will work 24/7. To be honest, I don’t believe anyone can sustain that kind of work long-term.
How can I find a job with a normal work-life balance when every job seems to want to overwork me? I’ll keep searching, but it feels nearly impossible right now.
One response
It’s great that you are prioritizing work-life balance when looking for a job, as it is an essential factor in maintaining job satisfaction and overall well-being.
In general, asking questions about work-life balance during an interview is appropriate and important for finding the right fit for you. However, the negative reactions you are experiencing could be due to various reasons.
One possibility is that the companies you have interviewed with have a culture that values long hours and dedication above all else. It’s not uncommon for some organizations to expect employees to work overtime and be available at all times, especially in certain industries or during periods of high workload. These companies might perceive your questions as a lack of commitment or willingness to put in extra effort when needed.
Another factor could be the specific way you are phrasing the questions or the frequency with which you are asking them. While questions about work-life balance are important, you may want to consider framing them in a way that shows your interest in the job and the company’s culture, rather than solely focusing on your personal needs.
If you are upfront about your priorities and concerns regarding work-life balance and it seems to be turning off potential employers, consider emphasizing other aspects of the job during the interview. You can always gather more information about work-life balance once you are offered the position or during the negotiation stage.
In terms of finding a job with a normal work-life balance, continue to prioritize this value in your job search. Look for companies that explicitly promote work-life balance as part of their culture and values. You can also research companies on platforms like Glassdoor to get a sense of their work culture and employee experiences.
Ultimately, finding the right job with a healthy work-life balance may require some patience and persistence. Keep asking the right questions, interviewing with different companies, and being clear about your priorities. It may take time, but it is possible to find a job that aligns with your values and allows you to have a fulfilling career without sacrificing your personal life. Good luck with your job search!