How to ask about work-life balance in a job interview

When preparing for a job interview, we tend to focus on what the interviewer might ask. is equally important.

A survey of over 1,000 people found that UK workers value work-life balance over wages when it comes to work. In fact, more than two of his thirds of those surveyed believe work-life balance is more important than money, job security, and benefits.

Nonetheless, asking about work-life balance in a job interview can be stressful. However, it is imperative that you find out if the organization meets your needs before accepting a job offer. This will help you find a job that matches your goals.

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So how should you ask about work-life balance in an interview? And are there other ways to assess a company’s flexibility, culture and work environment?

Valerie O’Hanlon, a career expert at Clarence Consulting, says that asking about work-life balance gives a good insight into an organization’s culture.

“The answers and the actions that follow will tell you if this company is the right place for you,” she says. “It tells you if you are valued and respected, and if the company believes your time is as valuable to you as it is to them. “

Work-life balance isn’t just for parents, says O’Hanlon. “For those just starting their careers and wanting to know what they want out of life. Someone in her 30s who wants to go to college in the evenings or spend time growing and developing outside of work. for,” she says.

“For those in their 40s and 50s who need time to travel and care for their families, and those in their 60s and 70s who want to prepare for retirement or work part-time.”

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The easiest way to find out a company’s point of view on a topic is to ask. O’Hanlon recommends finding out if your organization has specific policies regarding work-life balance or employee benefits.

“I ask how important it is for the organization. They may have adapted their policies since the pandemic. I would like to ask if there are any additional benefits.”

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It is more common for companies to offer perks such as early closing Fridays. Since the Covid-19 pandemic, most organizations offer flexible working in the form of flexible working hours, or early or late start or end. Before considering a job offer, it’s important to find out what they offer.

It also helps you know what your employer considers successful. Managers who base employee success on quality of work rather than hours worked may have a better approach to employee benefits.

However, it’s not always easy to ask such questions in the first interview. This is because the initial interview focuses on highlighting your professional skills and your value as an employee. It may feel wrong to ask about work-life balance when you’re trying to impress an employer.

If you’re having trouble asking about work-life balance, talking to people who work or used to work for the company can help spot potential red flags.

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“This gives us great insight into how people thought about work-life balance within the organization and why they left,” says O’Hanlon. “If turnover or burnout seems to be an issue for people, they may be able to tell you more.”

A lot can be learned from the interview process itself. “Will they call or email you after hours, or will they try to interview you after hours? Do they answer your questions about work-life balance in line with what you observe?” O’Hanlon asks.

If you ask them openly, their opinion can be judged by their reactions, not just what they say. , probably not a good sign. “Be careful and read between the lines,” O’Hanlon says.

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