what's the best way to find out if a particular business is a good fit for you

Do as much research as possible on that business. This is a standard reference source.

http://www.bls.gov/oco/

Work in it -- either as a volunteer or as a paid employee.

yes

The best way to determine if a particular business is a good fit for you is to gather information and evaluate it against your own criteria and goals. Here's a step-by-step approach to help you in your assessment:

1. Research the business:
- Start by visiting the company's official website to gather information about its products or services, values, mission statement, and company culture.
- Look for any news or press releases about the business to understand its recent performance, growth, or any major changes.
- Check out social media platforms, such as Facebook, LinkedIn, or Twitter, to see how the business engages with its customers, employees, and the general public.

2. Read reviews and feedback:
- Look for reviews and testimonials from customers, clients, or business partners to gauge the satisfaction level of their experiences.
- Consider checking websites like Glassdoor, which provides employee reviews and insights on company culture, work-life balance, and management practices.

3. Networking:
- Reach out to your professional network and industry contacts who may have knowledge or experience with the business you're considering.
- Ask for their opinions, insights, and if possible, any direct experiences working with or for the company.

4. Assess your values and goals:
- Reflect on your own values, career aspirations, and personal goals to determine if they align with the business you're evaluating.
- Consider factors such as work-life balance, organizational structure, growth opportunities, and the company's reputation.

5. Interviews and conversations:
- If possible, try to secure an interview or informational meeting with someone from the business, such as a hiring manager or a representative from the human resources department.
- Prepare a list of specific questions that will help you gauge if the company's values, vision, and work environment align with your own expectations.

6. Trust your instincts:
- After gathering all the information and insights, listen to your own intuition. If something feels off, it's essential to trust your gut feeling.

Remember, what makes a business a good fit varies from person to person, as individual preferences, goals, and values differ. It's crucial to take the time and carefully evaluate the information you gather.