Did you know that there are more than 6 million job openings in the United States right now? When you’re in search of a new job, you’re faced with a seemingly endless number of options.
Although this can be a little overwhelming, it also means that you have a greater opportunity to get hired by the right company.
The average full-time worker spends almost 25% of their time at work – keep that in mind. Now, do you want to be indifferent about your job, or do you want to love it?
There are a lot of aspects to consider when choosing a job, but by asking your potential employer about the following key things, you’re more likely to end up somewhere that aligns with who you are and what you want.
1. Job Location
As you know, you spend a great deal of your time at work. The average workday is 8 hours long, and depending on the location of your job, it can be even longer.
When you’re applying for a job, think about your commute time and how far you’re willing to go. If your workplace is 45 minutes from your house, you’re going to bump your workday up to 10 hours.
You should also consider the route you’re going to take to work. Will you be sitting in traffic for the majority of the trip? How will that affect how you feel, both in the office and once you get home for the day?
2. Working Hours
Though the 40-hour, 9 am to 5 pm work week is the standard, you should never assume it’s the case. Certain workplaces are open at different hours, or longer hours, that require you to work at different times depending on the day.
Before you accept a new job offer, ask how many work hours are in a typical week. Find out how they handle any additional work time beyond the norm.
Last, ask about holidays and weekends. Will you be expected to work on some of them? Is it possible to be on-call when you’re off?
3. Opportunities for Growth
It’s possible to find a job that’s absolutely perfect for you. One that you never want to leave or grow from. But more often than not, you’re going to want to move up in a company once you’ve been with them for a certain amount of time.
This is why you should ask any potential employer about the types of opportunities for growth they offer their employees. Will you have the chance to develop new skills? Do they offer training or pay for you to receive further education?
Look for a job that either allows for you to move up within that company or gives you the transferable skills you need to find something better elsewhere after you gain some experience.
4. Office Culture
Sure, the location of your office and the hours you’ll be there are important. But if you start your new job and hate the office culture, those things will no longer matter much.
Try to get a feel for the atmosphere of the workplace while you’re there. Do the employees seem happy to work there? Do they enjoy working with each other? Is their work valued by the boss?
This one can be tough to determine without working there, but finding out about things like team-building events, office get-togethers, and opportunities to give feedback, will point you in the right direction.
5. Future Colleagues
Continuing on with the topic of workplace culture, in an ideal situation, you love not only where you work but who you work with. Your fellow employees can make or break your experience, so it’s a good idea to meet as many people as you can when you go for an interview for a new job.
The person interviewing you should be able to give you insight into what working for them would be like, but it’s best to get a feel for that yourself.
Think about how you’ve been made to feel in phone and email interactions thus far as well. Do the people you’ve interacted with seem like people you’d like to work with?
6. Company History and Values
When you’re changing jobs, it’s crucial that you do some research into potential new employers before accepting any offers. Yes, companies can change, but if they have a record of layoffs or consistently make headlines for the wrong reasons, you need to be cautious.
In your research, take a look at the company’s mission statement and business model. Do they align with your own core values? Work will feel less like work when you’re content with where you are and who you work for.
7. Salary and Benefits
Finally, salary isn’t everything, but it is important. Your compensation package should allow you to meet your basic needs at the very least. While you’re applying for jobs, look over your budget to have an understanding of the amount you need to be comfortable.
Consider your benefits as well. Certain jobs come with a lower salary, but the benefits package results in more money going into your pocket in the long run. A salary calculator can help you determine what you’re truly making.
Does the company offer health insurance at a reasonable rate? Do they have a retirement plan? How do they handle vacation and sick days? Will they cover relocation costs if you have to move?
Get Hired for the Right Job With This Guide
Getting a job is one thing, getting the right job is something completely different. It takes a bit more time and effort, but in order to reach your full potential, you need to get hired by the right people.
By choosing a workplace that suits your values and personality, you’ll not only be getting a paycheck, but you’ll feel much happier when you’re there.
Interested in learning more about how to land your dream job? Take a look at our blog!
