What to Consider When Joining a New Company

Finding a great position goes way beyond a job description. From company culture to learning opportunities, there are several things to keep in mind when choosing your next employer.

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1. Company values: One of the most important things to consider when assessing potential employers is how their values align with yours. Knowing the company values the same things you do, eg: honesty, transparency, integrity, hard work, is an important element of an enriching work experience.

2. Team: You’re going to be spending a lot of time with your new co-workers so it’s important to make sure they’re people you’d like to work with. Prior to Covid, the average person spends 1/3 of each weekday at work, so having co-workers you get along with is a key part of being happy at your job.

3. Culture: Just like employers evaluate “culture fit” as one of the most important things they look for when interviewing candidates, YOU should put this at the top of your list too. Before you sign that offer letter, take time to assess how you would fit in at the company and how the company culture would fit you.

4. Opportunity to learn transferrable skills: Having the chance to learn new things is important in any position; but learning as much as possible in the beginning is crucial for the development of your career. In addition to offering training, a great company will set you up for future success by teaching you transferrable skills that you can use in your next position. When applying for a job, ask yourself what you can learn from the role and don’t be afraid to discuss training opportunities and skills building during your interview.

5. Growth Potential & Being Challenged: In addition to offering you opportunities to learn, a great company should also offer opportunities for advancement within the organization. This is a great incentive to learn as much as possible and prove your commitment to the team. Being challenged to learn and grow is one of the key indicators of a great company. In fact, getting out of your comfort zone is one of the best ways to acquire new skills and uncover who you are as a professional. Look for companies that encourage you to take on new challenges and offer support to turn those challenges into wins.

6. Will Management make you feel appreciated: Feeling appreciated is especially important in your work life. While this doesn’t necessarily mean that there should be company sponsored happy hours or free weekly lunches, it does mean that your employer will appreciate your efforts and recognize a job well done. Do they have a recognition program? How do they celebrate success?

7. Security: One of the most important things a company can offer its employees is a secure and stable environment. This doesn’t just mean a regular paycheck, but also a proven history of steady success and a sense of job security. It’s unrealistic to expect smooth sailing all the time, but a track record of stability in management and company achievement can be an indicator of a stable environment. What is the average tenure of their workforce?

8. Will you be set up for success: Although a lot of your professional success will depend on you, there are several things an employer can do to set you up for success. This includes Onboarding, training, mentorship, to goal setting and regular feedback. Factors that are especially important to ensure you have the resources to succeed.

At the end of the day, finding a company that will provide you with great opportunities, growth potential, challenges & security requires research prior to signing the offer letter. Interview your future employer as much as they are interviewing you. This will help ensure you find the right fit and give yourself the best chance of success.

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