When you’re looking for a job, you want to match your skills to the position and be paid fairly for your work. But there is a lot more to finding a good job than just pay rate and daily work. You want to work with a company that aligns with your values and that you’re excited about going into your job every day. Here are a few things to consider when deciding if a company is right for you.
Do You Share Important Values?
If your values aren’t a match, you will quickly become dissatisfied with the company. What you want to look for is their mission statement and, if they have it, a statement of values. How are these aligned with your mission? For example, if you would like to work for a company that values community outreach, then you will not be satisfied with an organization that doesn’t have a clear mission to do it.
Is the Company Culture a Match for Your Personality?
You also want to know if the company culture is a good match for you. For example, if you’re a creative type who likes to express your individuality through your wardrobe and the company expects professional suits in blue or black only, you’ll not enjoy your time there. Of course, culture goes a lot further than just the dress code, so dig into their environment and determine if you like what you see.
Do You Like the People You Met?
The interviewing process isn’t just for the potential employer to decide if they want to hire you. It’s also your chance to determine if you want to be hired by them. You will meet a variety of people along the way, from the front desk representative to potential coworkers. Did you enjoy your interactions? Do you see yourself fitting in with the people in the workplace?
Is There Room for Growth?
What are your long-term career goals? Does the job have an opportunity for advancement and, if so, what is the general path? You don’t have to put the cart before the horse here, but you do want to see if there is room for growth down the line. If you don’t see anyone else receiving promotions or taking on new responsibilities, you may need to reconsider your options.
Do You See a Future There?
Even with all the research and preparation, sometimes your satisfaction with a job comes down to your gut feeling. Trust what your gut tells you. Do you see yourself working with this company in five years? Ten? Even if you don’t, do you see it providing you with an important learning experience that will help you get where you want to be in the future?
Do you need help finding the right job for the next step in your career?
Our staffing experts will be there every step of the way! Search our open jobs today.
