What to Look for in a Company

Posted by admin at 2:16 pm

When you are searching for a new position, what are the key things to look for in a company?

While that changes from individual to individual, the following items usually top the make-or-break list for candidates:

Compensation

Make sure you do not sell yourself short here. Determine your budget and figure out how much you will need to live comfortably. You can then give a company a certain range (if asked) or negotiate when offered the position. If the job description lists a non-negotiable salary too low for your budget, you may want to reconsider apply. (But make sure that you also consider benefits and commission if applicable!)

Culture

Do you prefer a team environment? Work hard, play hard? Are you looking for a small office setting, or a corporate culture? If you are not sure what you would be most comfortable with, ask the company what the day-to-day office environment is like, how people interact with each other and how much is team work vs. individual work. Once they go into more detail about the work environment, you should get a good feel for how you would fit into the picture.

Performance and Schedule Expectation

Are you looking for a M-F, 9-5? Are you looking to work a non-traditional shift? Or you could be willing to work a 45 hrs + workweek given the hard work pays off.

Don’t forget to ask about the hours and what amount of time is expected of someone in that position.

Upward Mobility

Promotion is important to most job seekers. Ask the company what the career path is for a certain position and what needs to be put in to the position to reach that promotion.

All of these are based on the level of importance to each job seeker. To really get a good picture of whether a position is the right fit for you, you also need to make sure you are prepared for the interview and ask the right questions.