Interviewing to Sort Fact from Fiction: Finding Your Values Fit

Have you ever started at a job, only to realize a few months in that it’s not a good fit? Maybe the culture isn’t a good match, or the manager you’re reporting to is an absolute nightmare… Whatever it is, it’s disappointing to say the least! You don’t want to have to start from square one of your job search again.

When this happens, it typically indicates a common interview issue we see for high achievers: they get so focused on impressing that they forget that careers are about a two-way fit, and they ask poor questions as a result. 

They exhibit what I call “thirsty career energy”, which is when you’re so focused on impressing your interviewer and ensuring that they want to hire you that you forget to confirm that YOU actually want to work for them! It’s a dangerous power imbalanace, and it often leads to being surprised down the road.

This is frequent for high achievers, in my opinion, because many of them struggle with people pleasing and a need for external validation, which is why they can sometimes miss the forest beyond the trees and get focused-in on impressing. 

So, why is it crucial to interview for a 2-way fit and how do you do this? Let’s get into it!

A 2-way fit is a win-win when it comes to careers. The interview process is not just an opportunity for employers to evaluate candidates; it's also a chance for you, as a job seeker, to assess whether the company aligns with your values. While impressing the interviewer and securing a job offer may be important, it's equally crucial to ensure that the company is a values fit for you. Here’s are a few reasons why:

1. It prioritizes authenticity and fulfillment: 
   When you prioritize values alignment during the interview process, you're placing authenticity and fulfillment at the forefront of your career journey. By seeking a company that shares your values, you create a foundation for genuine engagement and passion in your work. When your personal values align with the organization's values, you're more likely to feel a sense of purpose and fulfillment in your role.
   

2. A values-aligned company is a better cultural fit: 
   A values-aligned workplace fosters a positive and supportive culture. It ensures that your beliefs and principles harmonize with those of the organization, allowing you to thrive in a work environment that celebrates and respects your individuality. A strong cultural fit promotes collaboration, teamwork, and a shared commitment to the company's mission, ultimately leading to increased job satisfaction and professional growth.
   

3. It drives long-term happiness:
   When you join a company that aligns with your values, you enhance the likelihood of long-term happiness in your career. By prioritizing values alignment in the interview process, you decrease the chances of entering a job that leaves you feeling unfulfilled or disconnected from your core beliefs. Investing your time and energy into a values-aligned company sets the stage for a more gratifying and rewarding professional journey.
   

4. It reduces stress and conflict:
   Working in an environment that aligns with your values helps reduce stress and conflict. When your personal values are in harmony with the company's values, you are less likely to experience a constant clash between your beliefs and the expectations placed upon you. This alignment contributes to a healthier work-life balance and fosters a sense of peace and contentment in your career.
   

5. It drives motivation and commitment: 
   Values alignment ignites a deep sense of motivation and commitment in your work. When you genuinely believe in the organization's mission and values, you're more likely to invest your time and energy wholeheartedly. This intrinsic motivation fuels your drive to excel, fosters personal growth, and cultivates a strong sense of loyalty to the company and its objectives.

So, now that you know you need to ensure the company is a two way fit, how do you do it?! 

For starters, it’s about asking better interview questions! 

You know at the end of the interview when your interviewer asks “what questions do you have for me?” You don’t want to throw out a couple of mediocre questions you got from Googling. It’s much more important to customize your questions based on your values, and use them to sort out what a company is actually like.

If that sounds like something you’re needing, we have something coming in just over a week that has you covered… I’ll be sharing all of the info on it soon, but in the meantime, hop on the waitlist here to get early access and bonus time with me. 

Because you deserve a 2-way fit, friend.