After you get the interview and then the offer, not all your work is quite done yet. One of the most important parts of the process that job applicants often look over is analyzing the potential company’s culture. Everyone should strive to work somewhere were they are both inspired and appreciated by their superiors and coworkers, but also somewhere where they can thrive and do the same!

Accepting a job somewhere that doesn’t have an office culture that meshes well with your personality can be disastrous. During interivews and information sessions prior to accepting an offer, be sure to ask plenty of questions about company policies, processes and just how employees interact with each other in general. (A good indicator of a company with an overall good company culture is one with employee longevity.)

However, what deters people from analyzing a company culture properly is their incorrect perception of the terms company culture actually means. No, its not the frat environment you are hoping this next job comes with – its actually the combined company vision, their valuation of important employee traits and the best methods for the company to achieve their goals. You don’t have to have the same personality nad interests and your potential bosses or coworkers but rather, the same vision for the betterment of the company.

So, to determine if you will fit in or not, you must determine what aspects are important to you. Knowing the things that motivate and inspire you to do your best in the workplace is something you must have pre-determined before you start interviewing so you know exactly what you are looking for. If you don’t, you will find yourself changing your expectations to fit particular jobs, when really, you should be looking for jobs that fit you.

If you go into interviews prepared to ask the right questions, having done your research and knowing what you want, you will be best equipped to evaluate each potential job’s company culture. Remember, you aren’t the only one being evaluated in the interview — while the employer is questioning you, you should be doing the same to make sure it truly is the best fit.