Spouses help determine where people work - Brief Article

Some of life's biggest decisions are those associated with work. It may come as no surprise, then, that in a survey developed by Accountemps, a temporary staffing service for accounting, finance, and bookkeeping professionals, that included responses from 150 executives with the nation's 1,000 largest companies, 42% said the person they were most likely to approach first for input if they were considering a job change is their spouse or significant other. Twenty-eight percent said they would consult a mentor.

"Those with the most-thorough understanding of your personal ambitions and professional goals are best suited to help you assess a career move," maintains Max Messmer, chairman of Accountemps and author of Job Hunting for Dummies. Regardless of whom you turn to for advice, however, he says there are several important factors to consider when determining whether a position is a good fit. He offers the following tips:

* Size up the firm. Is the company financially stable? Are its values consistent with your own? Does the corporate culture appeal to you?

* Assess the job itself. Will you enjoy the day-to-day responsibilities? Are you likely to find the position challenging after several months? Will taking the job result in any significant lifestyle changes, such as a longer commute or increased travel?

* Look at the big picture. Consider the career implications. Does this job fit into your long-term plan? Are there sufficient opportunities for advancement within the company?

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