This test doesn't cover all the variables, which are infinite, but it will give you a good idea of your general preferences. It will also point out those areas where you know you won't compromise. As before, you may want to photocopy this test first, so you can take it again in the future. Just like interests and skills, your work environment preferences will undoubtedly change over the years. Check all the factors that are important to you. Decide which ten are of the highest priority to you and record them on your chart on page 179.

Location

Close to home (within_______ minutes or_______ miles)

Able to walk or bike to work

Work from home

Sometimes work from home

Access to public transportation

Access to parking

Safe location

Access to shops and restaurants

Near parks or open space

Access to a gym or health club

Travel to different locations during workday

U.S. travel _______ percent of time

International travel_______ percent of time

Other____________________________

Environment

Cubicle

Shared/communal work space

Office with door

Windows/natural light

Bright and colorful

Conservative and subdued

Formal

Casual

Ergonomically correct

Pets allowed

Quiet

Lively

Music allowed

Outdoors

Mixture of indoors and outdoors

Virtual work space

Shared, drop-in, or “hoteling” work space

Other____________________________

Schedule

Full time

Part time

Set hours/schedule

Flexible hours

Project work

Job share

Telecommute

Weekdays only

Nights only

Weekends only

Specific days/months off

Rotating schedule

Other ____________________________

Compensation

Salary Minimum_______ Desired_______

Salary plus commission

Commission only

Hourly rate

Bonus opportunities

Incentive pay

Profit sharing

Signing bonus

Annual/quarterly bonus

Stock purchase plan

Stock options

Other ____________________________

Benefits

Vacation (weeks per year)

Paid time off (set number of days to include vacation days, personal days, sick days)

Unpaid vacation option

Maternity/paternity/family leave

Health coverage

Dental coverage

Vision coverage

Family health coverage

Tuition reimbursement

401k/savings plan or 403b company contribution match

Life insurance

Disability insurance

Professional dues

Car

Car expense allowance

Laptop computer

Cell phone

Relocation fees

Help with homebuying costs

Health club fees

Paid sabbaticals

Other ____________________________

Attire

Casual

Professional

Personal choice

Uniform

Casual Friday

Other ____________________________

Type of Organization

For profit

Nonprofit

Government

Academic

Self-employed

Size of organization: Small_______ Medium_______ Large

Business focus: Local State U.S. International

Start-up

Established company

Headquarters

Branch office

Other ____________________________