How, when, and where you work can be just as important as the work you do. You spend about half your waking adulthood in your work environment. It makes sense that you would come to see it as an extension of yourself and as a tangible symbol of your career aspirations and accomplishments. If it came down to it, most people would choose a supportive boss who truly values their contributions rather than having the perfect desk ensemble. But, in reality, you probably spend more time in your work space than you do with your boss. When you're happy, comfortable, feel appreciated and rewarded, and work in an environment that suits your style and preferences, you can be more productive. That's good for you, your boss, and the company.

Once you identify those factors that you need in your work environment, it will help you understand some of your satisfaction and dissatisfaction with past workplaces. It will also help you focus on what you need to find in the future. Once you know your most important work environment factors, you can go into interviews armed with questions whose answers will help you decide if the job and company are a good fit for you. No one is advising you to accept a job just because it has great benefits, you get to wear jeans on Fridays, and it includes a paid sabbatical, but if you're on the fence about an offer, such details can be the sweet icing on the career cake.