When searching for employment, job candidates should consider whether their work style is a good match for the firm.  Below are a few questions job candidates should ask about work style before they go on an interview:

1.      What is the company’s work/life balance policy?  While a great number of law firms expect their attorneys to work until the job is done even if that means long hours and weekends, there is a growing number of companies which take a more balanced approach.  The job candidate should consider their own values first when determining if a firm’s work/life policy is a good fit. Ask yourself:  Do you want more time with family? Do you have an active life outside of work?  How often do you spend working weekends voluntarily?

2.      Does the firm micro-manage?  While some attorneys enjoy receiving detailed directions, others prefer more leeway in deciding how they will approach their work.  Which one are you and which style does the firm primarily use?  If you prefer to make the majority of the decisions about your work then you probably don’t want to work with a firm that insists on an “our way or the highway” work policy.

3.      Is the firm a company of “teams” or “lone wolves”?  Most law firms have some level of collaboration when it comes to getting work done; but this level can vary from one company to the next.  Job candidates need to first determine if they prefer to work alone or in groups when deciding which type of firm is best suited for their work style.