It’s not always easy to know the true nature of a company before starting to work there. The interview process can provide some insight to the work environment, but many aspects can be missed. This is why it is important to thoroughly research an organization of interest as you explore open positions. Doing so will enable you to not only appear informed during the interview, but also to get a sense of what the climate is and how you feel your personality would fit in with the existing dynamics.

Glassdoor.com, an excellent resource for learning more about a company beyond what it puts on its website, posted an article highlighting ways to find a job that fits your life. Here are a few suggestions we feel are particularly relevant for job-seekers with a cancer diagnosis.  

• Search strategically. It’s important to think about the position that is most appropriate for you. This can be done by considering past work experience as well as by doing a bit of soul-searching to understand where your passions lie. It can be helpful to think of your job search as a work in progress. Getting the process in motion, reflecting on the experience and making strategic decisions to move forward are all important steps. Looking for the right position is an undertaking in itself, and since the end result will have a significant impact on your life, taking the time to be thorough can make all the difference. 
• Identify key benefits. This is especially pertinent for those who are going through treatment or returning to work after treatment. Benefits such as paid time off (PTO) and health insurance, as well as policies regarding flexible work arrangements or reasonable accommodations, are all elements that can influence the decision to work at a particular company. Glassdoor can provide a window into how these benefits are distributed, as well as insight into the management style of the organization. 
• Be an informed candidate. While this might seem obvious, it is important — and therefore bears repeating. Employers want to hire people who are engaged and passionate. By being informed and having an awareness of the position and the company, you are demonstrating the type of individual you are as well as your commitment to the company’s values.

Job-hunting can be a long and often draining process. But taking the time to do it right and cover all the bases — for your own benefit as well as for your potential employer’s — can yield a well-suited work environment and, ultimately, a satisfying career. And while it may be tempting to take a job merely because it is offered and you need it, it’s critically important to consider your own health and happiness down the road.

Be sure to take a look at our free Job Search Toolkit for additional suggestions and helpful tips. And check out our Balancing Work & Cancer webinar series, which includes sessions on Career Change, Job Search and Building an Effective LinkedIn Profile.