What to look for in your next job and employer

Ready to start job hunting? Find out what you should look for in your next role and employer.

After working for the same company for some time, maybe you recently came to the realization that you want to do something different.

While you might like your boss and co-workers, you have not got any feeling of satisfaction from your job lately. But where do you begin in finding a role you will enjoy?

As you start hunting for a new position, there are a number of things that you should keep in mind that will help the transition to your new career to be as positive and successful as possible.

Look for signs of stability

When looking for a new career and company to work for, stability is one of the most important qualities – after all you don’t want to find yourself forced back on the job market after just a few months.

So, as CRA Consulting notes, before applying for a job, check out the company’s recent performance. Is it growing and offering new services? Does it offer benefits to its employees, and does it promise a competitive wage to its workers?

If so, these are all signs of a stable business, and one where you could safely submit an application. 

At the same time, find out what perks they offer their employees, but also bear in mind that a lack of benefits does not necessarily have to be a deal breaker. For instance, if a company offers a number of must-haves like 401K contributions, generous paid vacation and a paid gym membership, but they don’t offer life insurance, you can always pursue getting a budget-friendly life insurance policy on your own.

For example, USAA offers affordable life insurance policies for their members that can give you the coverage you need — all without having to depend on an employer to provide it.

Make sure the company’s values match yours

As WayUp notes, one of the most important things to consider when looking for a new job is whether the company’s values align with yours.

An employer can offer an amazing salary, incredible benefits and a great office with a view, but if you question the honestly, integrity and work ethic that goes on in the company every day, it will not be a good fit for you. 

To get a sense whether the values complement yours, check their website and social media pages, and Google the name of the business to see who they might contribute funds to.

If, for example, you feel strongly about animal rescue and you find social media posts that show employees of a company volunteering at a local adoption event, this is a good sign that the firm might be a good match for your values.

Ask about work-life balance

It doesn’t matter how much you love a job, you don’t want it to take over your life. So, as you are applying for new positions, pay close attention to the hours you will be working and what their policies are about mandatory overtime and taking on additional responsibilities.

Maintaining a healthy work-life balance is key to your happiness and well-being, and clarifying your hours and responsibilities with the employer is a great way to check if the job is one you should pursue.

You can and will find a better fit

Leaving a secure job you have had for some time – even one that makes you unhappy – can be a scary prospect. But by doing your due diligence and plenty of research during your job hunt, including looking for stability, great values and a solid work-life balance, your new career should be one that is much more fulfilling.