Job search: back to basics

You are in the advanced process for the job of your dreams. But at the last moment, you realize that the travel time will be unbearable, and your spouse tells you that he or she does not want to move: maximum frustration for you AND for the recruiter. So what questions should be asked from the start of the process to avoid these disappointments?

– Look at the travel time. Not only on Google Maps: project yourself concretely into your organization on a daily basis. Do you see yourself doing this commute every day for several years? What impact will it have on your personal balance, your health, your wallet?

– Project yourself into your organization on a daily basis by listing all your constraints: schedules, management of children, travel, on-call duty if the position includes any, etc.

– If a move is expected, involve your family as soon as possible. Go together to visit the region to be sure that you all project yourself there. Also identify job opportunities for your spouse, schools, various activities, not to mention the real estate market.

– Anticipate your arrival date. What notice do you have? Is it compatible with the urgency of recruitment? Can you shorten it (did your former colleagues manage to?) Do you plan to take time off before starting?

Some aspects are not clear enough for you to project yourself? Ask the recruiter.

Not completely comfortable with certain elements? Talk about it transparently.

The more you anticipate and align your frames of reference, the less disappointment you will have at the last moment. Remember that the recruiter is looking for someone who can make a long-term fit with the company – if he fails, he is responsible. So we might as well work hand in hand, with confidence and transparency from the start.