Introduction

The purpose of this page is to present some of the visible and invisible expectations, values, practices, and attitudes of mainstream work in the United States. While this description will never match any one employer, it can be used as starting point for your personal evaluation as you consider employment options. Armed with this information you can make a decision about how well mainstream jobs match with your values, attitudes, and the lifestyle you want to achieve. If you desire a job in the mainstream, you can start preparing early so that you have the expected skills and are comfortable with the values and attitudes you are likely run into.

It is important to know that although we are presenting this information, we are not stating that we agree with or support the practices. Yet it is vital that you have this information on the mainstream culture.

What is mainstream work? For this handout the definition will be medium (a few hundred employees) to large (tens of thousands) employers. Some small employers operate very much the same. Some small alternative employers have become quite large while maintaining something of their small business values and practices. Ben & Jerry's Ice Cream is an example. The assumed positions described here are professional/salaried jobs that might apply to a wide range of college graduates.

As you read through this description, ask yourself:

• What is my definition of success?
• What will this require of me?
• How will this match or adversely effect my vision of my desired lifestyle?
• How will this fit my family?
• What cultural adjustments will I be making to work in this environment?
• Can I do this work and maintain a bi-cultural lifestyle?
• What support will I need as I proceed with this type of work?
• What are my values and how do they compare?