Tuesday, July 3, 2007

Fitting in the Family

Finding a family-friendly workplace can add some extra questions -- and a few months -- to your job hunt, human resources consultant Lori K. Long says in her new book, "The Parent's Guide to Family-Friendly Work."

Start by making your expertise valuable enough that an employer will want to accommodate you, Long says. Then look for:

· Indications that families are appreciated, such as photo displays or invitations to company picnics.

· A chance to talk to co-workers about the culture and typical days.

· Ways your department or supervisor would measure productivity and success. If it's hours on the job, that's a bad sign. If it's projects or deals completed, that allows for more flexibility.

· An employee handbook that shows benefits beyond the basics, as well as a tone and approach that's family-friendly and acknowledges the need for personal time.

· Amount of overtime and options to work from home.

· The opportunity to evaluate your potential boss. If you're offered the job after one interview with the chief, ask for another meeting, Long says. Explain that you want to commit to the job and that before you do, you need information.

-- Vickie Elmer