Tips from the Pros

by Samer Hamadeh

President and CEO, Vault Inc. (www.vault.com)

Understanding company culture is key to job success. Too many people accept a job offer without knowing what their new employer really does, what the work environment is like, what employees think about the company, and whether the new employer and job are truly suited to their personality. You should always do your research—talk to current employees and ex-employees, ask interns, surf the company’s Web site, and check out Vault's message boards and books—before you accept a job. By doing the research before you accept the job, you will be a more educated employee with a reduced learning curve. You may also save yourself from the aggravation and disappointment commonly associated with job dissatisfaction. It is a worthwhile investment of your time.

Samer Hamadeh is president and CEO of Vault Inc., the leading media company focused on careers, with a Web site, books, a syndicated newspaper column, and a personalized resume review and career coaching service. He co-founded Vault with Mark Oldman and Hussam Hamadeh in 1996.

© 2002. Used with permission of the author.