[*Anya*]

I was able to do this in my last job (sure miss it!).

Because I knew all about the company and what they did-my focus was on how they did it, i.e., expectations of the supervisor, how the supervisor managed and handled problems and stressors in the workplace; how the employees that worked there did their jobs; how they talked to each other (was it respectful and kind or was there an undercurrent of hostility and trying to outdo each other).

I asked them what they liked the best about working there and what they liked the least. Even when they worked hard to put their best face forward, how they truly felt always came out-even in the little things.

Sometimes you can tell a lot about a company by the type of people that they hire and how those employees treat each other. I also did a lot of listening-trying to read between the lines.

Of course, the employer brings out the employees that they feel best represent the company; but you can still get a sense of how things work and the general atmosphere.

It also says a lot about the company that they would be willing to let you speak with current employees.

My prior employer even let me speak with the staff without supervisors present.

My current one would not do that.

Now I know why.

Best of luck to you!