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. While many job seekers are stressed about having a great interview, it's important that you conduct an interview of your own. Look at each new job as a potential employer, not just a paycheck.
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:
If your first thought when asked what you want in a job is the position’s salary, you’re not alone. Many people list high salary as one of their top desires in a dream job. 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.
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:
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.
It's also smart to take time to consider the work environment of your current job. Is it a place you enjoy being? Are there specific things you are looking for in your next job? Consider these questions when job searching and during the interview process.
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.
A few questions to consider when looking at job security: How often does the company post job openings? How many job listings are currently open? What is the job market of your industry? How difficult is it for someone to find a new job in this type of role? These are all good questions to consider when you are on the job hunt.
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:
Company culture can make a big difference in your level of job satisfaction. Ask yourself these questions:
During the hiring process ask specific questions to get a strong understanding of the culture. Consider how this new culture compares to that of your current employer. You can also look at the job description to gain insight into the company's culture.
Job searches can be challenging but with these tips you will know what to look for in new jobs and what questions to ask along the way. For more tips and resources to move you closer to achieving your educational and career goals, visit our Student Resources and Services page.
