What do you look for in a job? You might hear this question in an interview, but it’s also an important question to consider in your own planning and decision-making process. Whether you’re preparing for graduation or the next stage of your career, here are five key topics to keep in mind during your job search:
1. Salary and Benefits
If your first thought when asked what you want in a job is the position’s salary, you’re not alone. You want to ensure you can provide for yourself and the people who rely on you. Free online paycheck and salary calculators can help you evaluate your next role’s compensation. Paycheck calculators show you how much you’ll earn after taxes and other deductions – and salary calculators can help you compare your salary offer with others in your industry.
You’ll also want to find out what benefits a company offers. Consider whether the company provides healthcare and retirement saving plans, if they will cover relocation costs, and what other perks, like wellness plans and stock options, are available.
2. Work Environment
Moving beyond questions of salary and benefits, you’ll want to look into the company’s work environment. Here are some questions to ask about the place where you’ll spend so much time:
- Where is the job location? Make sure you know how far you’ll need to commute to work. How much will you spend on transportation costs – and how will the commute affect your stress level?
- Are there options for remote or hybrid work? There are more ways than ever to work from home or split your time between home and the office.
- What hours do employees usually work? Will you be expected to work on weekends? What about regular overtime hours?
- Who will be your direct supervisor? Asking about this person’s communication style, strengths, and weaknesses can give you a feel for life on the job.
You can also ask to tour the office or workspace before saying yes to an offer, so you can see how the work environment feels to you.
3. Job Security
Researching the company’s track record can give you insights into the group you are considering joining. It’s important to know if the company is in the process of expanding or downsizing, and if it has a frequent history of laying off employees. You can also explore recent news coverage of the company. Has it been in any financial or legal trouble? Is it expanding into new industries? Asking questions like these can help you gauge the level of job security you’ll have in a new position.
4. Growth Opportunities
You want to find a job that will help you develop professionally and advance your career. The following questions can be a good starting place as you research what opportunities will be available to you:
- What new things will you learn in the position? New challenges can help you grow. Ask what professional development resources are available to employees.
- Is there room for advancement within the company? Will there be chances to move into new roles down the line?
- Will the company help you further your education? Find out if the company provides stipends for employees to take additional courses or earn professional degrees.
5. Company Culture
Company culture can make a big difference in your level of job satisfaction. Ask yourself these questions:
- Do the company’s values align with your own? For example, you may consider how the company addresses environmental concerns, or diversity and inclusion.
- How does the company approach mental health? If mental health is something you value, this question can give you an idea of workplace boundaries and expectations.
- Does the company offer team retreats and team-building events? How does it encourage a sense of community?
Whether you’re searching job boards or evaluating a job offer, these questions can help set you on the path to success. For more tips and resources to move you closer to achieving your educational and career goals, visit our Student Resources and Services page.