Today I had my second interview for a part-time permanent job. It’s so incredibly rare to find a job that allows me to do what I do best (marketing writing and scheming) but also gives me the time to pursue the things I adore (like, uh, more writing and scheming, but for Brand Ariel instead of Brand Anyone Else). I figured when I was laid off from my last gig (that of 4-day work weeks), that my sweet PT/perm job schedule was finished and my only option was to go back to freelancing. But look at this! I was referred to a part time perm job by a colleague I met at a conference last year.

Part of what I rambled on about during this second interview was how to me, it’s the sign of a good employer that they understand that I know myself and my work-style better than anyone else. And I know that the way I do my best work for a company is to be there, do my shit, and then leave to enjoy my rich and fulfilling life outside my job. I seem to have a higher-than-average need to balance my on-site work time with other stuff. And when a company is willing to work with me on this issue (because yes: this makes me a “special needs” employee) it shows me that they’re dedicated to letting me do my best work for them. Which is of course what every employer should want. But it’s remarkable how few are able to provide the flexibility that help certain kinds of employees thrive.