Good test for rating good jobs

Forget the SATs and the GMATs. This test from Penelope Trunk is more my speed. Plus, it serves a great purpose -- helping you figure out if you have a good job.

Penelope puts short commutes, manageable workflow, clear and challenging goals, and work friendships on her rating scale. Strong start, but I think there's more to the story. Here are a few Recruiter add-ons you can factor into your final score:

1. Generous management -- 1 pt.

This doesn't mean pizza parties every Friday or company trips to the amusement park, though these morale boosters are a welcome break from work. I'm talking more about monetary benefits such as relocation costs, health care reimbursement, fair raises, and 401(k) contributions. These incentives help offset your financial woes, and free your mind to concentrate on your work, not your checkbook. Plus, the perks speak volumes about how your employer values your talent.

2. Constructive reviews -- 1 pt.

Yogi Berra once quipped, “When you come to a fork in the road, take it.” However, this level of ambiguity won't help you much during performance reviews. Thank your lucky stars if you have a manager who offers constructive feedback, honest praise, and actionable advice about solving workplace problems and advancing your career. It will help you improve in the short term, and learn and grow in the long term.

3. Respect from employers and coworkers -- 1 pt.

I am always amazed by the positive cycle of good work and respect. Your achievements earn praise and admiration, which in turn motivate you to continue that success. But respect goes beyond gold stars and back claps. Does your office openly acknowledge and appreciate your contributions? Do they treat you, one another, vendors, and clients with maturity and dignity? While not everyone will be -- or even should be -- your best friend, genuine friendliness makes the office environment much more pleasant.

Add these points to Penelope's test, and see how your company did:

0 to 3: Polish your resume, and start networking.

4 to 6: A nice place to be right now.

7 to 9: Congrats. You found a job in Heaven.

Any test items I missed? Add them here!

Posted by: Christy H.