As a job seeker, you constantly hear about the skills employers want from you. They want you to have a phenomenal work ethic, great communication skills, leadership potential — the list could go on. But, rarely do you hear about the qualities a potential employer should possess.
What should you seek when applying at various companies? The thought behind job searching is usually all about what the employer wants, but essentially, it’s about what you want in your employer. At the end of the day, you must find a company that empowers you by offering things that help you grow professionally and personally.
According to a Deloitte’s Shift Index survey, 80 percent of people are dissatisfied with their jobs. Don’t be part of the statistic; look for a career at a company that empowers you. Not finding a good fit can leave you searching longer than you planned, taking a job that doesn’t match your goals or stuck in one you no longer enjoy. No one wants to be in any of those situations.
While you’re on the job hunt, you might want to keep these five empowering qualities top of mind:
Company Culture
While in the application process, you should try to get a feel for the company’s culture. There are simple ways to do this. You can find other employees via LinkedIn, read Glassdoor reviews or simply ask the people who interview you. Finding out if your future employer has a history of negative or deceitful behavior is something that is much easier to handle while you’re still in the market for a job.
Growth
Many choose between jobs based on short-term factors like salary or a better title, but it’s also smart to take into account the long-term growth opportunity. To ensure possibility exists for expanding your horizons, bring up the subject during your interview. Make sure you have prepared to express your personal goals, and ask the interviewer if the job opportunity aligns with those goals.
Stability
Searching for the right job can become time-consuming why not make sure the company you’re interviewing with has long-term intentions? Some things you can look for are success in growing employee numbers, employee growth tracks and steady pay and benefits. Stability gives you a feeling of control for what the future holds, and having a job you can count on lowers the stress of potential job loss.
Training
Learning should never end. Companies that offer training programs, class reimbursements, seminars and workshops should be of value to you. With ever-changing marketplace demands, constant learning is crucial to growth. Overall, it will make you more knowledgeable, which in turn leads to higher salaries, leadership positions and career development.
Salary and Benefits
Compensation such as salary, defined career paths, a 401(k) and health benefits are important when considering an employer. Although relevant, compensation should not be the deciding factor when choosing one job over another. Take into account the other items mentioned.
The right career offers you the full package. A job search is twofold, even though it may not always seem that way. Hold potential employers to the same high standards as they have set for you, and you’ll be more apt to find an employer that empowers you to be more.
