How to figure out what you want from an employer
If you’ve ever applied for a position, you know the job search is a time-consuming process. From tricky interview questions to drawn-out hiring processes, it can be tempting to accept the first half-decent job offer you receive. But rash decisions can leave you unsatisfied in a job you don’t enjoy.
To find a company where you can truly thrive, you need to consider cultural fit (i.e. person-organization fit). Cultural fit exists when there is congruence between the norms and values of the organization and those of the person. Just like you don’t get along with every person you meet, you won’t get along with every company you interview with.
But how do you find a company with the right cultural fit?
The first step to choosing the right company is figuring out what you want from an employer. Whether you’re searching for your first full-time position, or you’re an experienced professional eager to advance your career, you need to figure out what makes you happy at work.
According to a survey conducted by the Society for Human Resource Management, the top five contributors to employee satisfaction are respectful treatment of employees at all levels, compensation, benefits, job security, and opportunities to use skills and abilities. Other factors that contribute to overall company culture may include the company’s environmental footprint, social impact, ethics, transparency, and level of accountability.
In addition to narrowing prospective employers down by industry, it can be helpful to consider organization type. For instance, if you are eager to work for a company that gives back, consider working for a charity or nonprofit organization. Or, if you want an employer who recognizes the environmental and social impact of their company, check out Certified B Corporations®.
What makes you happy at work?
As you search for a new job with a company where you can thrive, it is important to consider what matters to you. In addition to reviewing industry research, consider your strengths, priorities, and non-negotiables when it comes to a position. Non-negotiables may include anything from a minimum salary to a maximum commute time. This reflection process looks different depending on the stage of your career.
If you are a recent graduate… Think back to what you have been recognized for as a young adult. What skills, talents, and abilities do you possess? How do your professors, friends, and family members describe your strengths? You want to find a position where you can leverage what you’re good at, while gaining valuable skills to compensate for weaknesses and skills gaps.
If you are employed, but job searching… If possible, it can be helpful to speak with current colleagues. What do they consider your professional strengths? What do you offer that is better than your industry peers? Research indicates that people derive satisfaction from the ability to use their skills and abilities in their jobs. You don’t want to accept a position that prevents you from doing what you’re good at.
If you are temporarily unemployed… Think back to your previous employers and positions. What did you enjoy? What made it difficult to go to work? If you left your previous position because you were unsatisfied with your responsibilities, use that to guide your job search. If you were let go because of company cuts, job security and financial transparency may be the most important factors for you to consider.
Wrapping It Up
It’s hard to shop when you don’t know what you want to buy. The same holds true for the job hunt.
Take time to reflect on who you are and where you’re headed. The first step to finding a company where you can thrive is figuring out exactly what you want from an employer.
If you found this advice helpful, check out Part 2 and Part 3 of this series, which will include advice on how to prioritize your values when job hunting and how to determine if a company is a good fit.
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Metis Consulting Group is proud to be a Certified B Corporation®. Certified B Corps are for-profit companies certified by the nonprofit B Lab® to meet rigorous standards of social and environmental performance, accountability, and transparency. Learn more.
