Company History + Reputation
Found a company you’re interested in? Do your research before making any solid commitments. Keep in mind, not only do you reflect upon your company, but your company can reflect upon you. You’ll be representing the company you choose, and it helps to know just how reputable they are before you get involved. Not sure what to look for? Check online to see if the company has a history of success, what their reviews and news looks like, and if their employees seem to enjoy working there.
Company Culture
Do it for the culture. The culture of a company should be a significant consideration when weighing your options. A company’s culture can allow you to gauge what your day-to-day experience might look like. If your values and vibe match the company’s culture, then there’s a good chance you’ll thrive in that type of environment. Check their website and social media to see what their mission is, what causes they care about, how they work, and how you might fit into that. Be sure to ask your interviewer how they would describe the culture from their perspective as well!
Benefits
We can’t forget about the benefits. You should keep in mind that your base salary is just one part of your compensation package. Retirement, insurance, PTO, equity, bonuses, and more should all be considered before accepting any positions. Everyone has different life circumstances, can the company you’re considering benefit yours?
Growth Opportunities
In addition to benefits, a great organization should offer opportunities for growth within the company. Not only does it show the company’s desire for its employees to evolve and succeed, but it also shines a light on the closeness from ownership to employees. Consider vertical and lateral growth within a company. Growth doesn’t always look like moving up, sometimes it looks like moving into a new skillset or department. During an interview, take the opportunity to ask about potential career advancement.
Your Team Members
We’re sure you’ve heard the saying if you love what you do, you’ll never work a day in your life. Well, the same can be said about the people you work with. Let’s face it, you’re going to be spending a lot of time with them. Try to take the time to learn more about who you might be working with and under, what their work styles are, and if they’re a good fit for you. When you’re enjoying your time, work feels less like work.