You will agree with me that the first factor most people consider before taking a job is the salary and other financial benefits. As much as this is important, there is a lot more aspects of the job and company to consider, all of which are important and shouldn’t by any means be overlooked. If you are searching for a job, or you have just been offered one, you should take the following factors into consideration.
- Consider the type of Management
If you are someone who prefers to work with little or no supervision, or you prefer being supervised, you have to put that into consideration. How does the management of the company operate? Do you need a manager who allows you to work independently? Or do you prefer someone checking in with you on a daily basis? If you will be working remotely most of the time, are you able to successfully manage your time and tasks? Think back to what worked and what did not work in your last position. Who is your ideal manager? What type of work environment will they encourage each day?
- Consider the Company’s Employee Expectations
Companies expect different behaviour and actions from its employees. Expectations can relate to socializing, dress code, formality of behaviour, how many hours you work, etc.
Find out how you want to be treated as an employee. Do you prefer a strict working environment with high standards of dress code to help you concentrate? Are you happy to work in a competitive environment in which people will often stay late but get the salary to reward this? Or do you prefer a more relaxed environment with more casual dress?
You want to be employed by a company that supports your individual growth. Most times this growth will rely on additional learning and qualifications. One of the most important question to ask during any interview is if there is any investment in the education of their employees. Don’t forget to do that during the interview.
- Consider the Work/Life Balance
What type of work/life balance do you want? Decide what is important to you. Do you need a reasonable amount of time away from work to pursue other interests that you see as just as important as your job? Or are you determined to follow a dream which requires you to work hard and leaves you with less of your own time? Your own work/life balance is up to you to decide. You need to know your limits to ensure that the job is the right fit for you and your life outside of work.
- Consider Opportunities for Growth
Growth opportunities in the workplace are very important for career progression. If you want to progress in your career, be sure to ask if there are such opportunities during the interview. Doing this will let the interviewers know you care about personal and company growth.
- Consider Company Stability
Considering how a lot of companies fold or lay off some of their workforce nowadays, it is wise to make a little research to know if the company will be around for long, or if your position will be required in the long run, so you don’t go working for a company that will wind up or lay you off soon, and find yourself hunting for another job in the near future,
- Consider The commute
You must work out what your commute is going to cost you in both time and money. Consider if your salary is enough for you when you minus your travel costs from it? Does your commute time leave you with enough spare time in the evening? Can you comfortably face your commute in the dark? If the answer is no, think about whether you want to apply to the job.
Now, you see that the remuneration in terms of finances, shouldn’t be the only factor to consider before applying or accepting a job offer. You need to make other considerations, which are as important as the financial benefits, so as to take proper decisions. Do you have other factors we did not include, feel free to add them in the comments.
My name is Chigozie Japhet. I am a content writer, and a brand strategist. I like writing, reading, researching and watching football, especially my team, Man United. i believe in working hard, and also in relaxation as all work without play, makes Chigozie a dull boy.
