4 Most Things to Consider When Looking for a Job

According to a Harris Poll study on behalf of CNBC Make It, almost half of older millennials regret their career choice. The reasons for this vary, but one common factor seems to be a lack of informed decision-making.

While it’s impossible to predict whether or not we’ll regret our choices, some efforts can be made to steer away from the wrong path.

Here are some things to consider when looking for a job, so you can increase your chances of having a satisfying career.

Before you dive into a new job, take a close look at the company profile.

This includes figuring out their vision and mission, values, performance, branding, and track record. A quick read on the company’s About Us page is usually enough, but if you want a more thorough research, consider checking all of these assets:

• Every menu on their website to understand their values and products
• All of their social media accounts to know their branding and how they engage with their audience
• Google and Glassdoor review to see feedbacks from customers and employees
• Look into how long the company has been around and its track record. A stable company with a good history is often a safer bet.
• Does the company's mission resonate with you? Working for a company whose values align with your own can make your job more fulfilling.
• What are people saying about the company? Pay attention to news articles or reports about the company.

See our advice in the table below to help you make the decision.

Finding the right job isn't just about the paycheck and benefits; the work environment plays a massive role in your overall job satisfaction and success.

These are a few things to consider and ask when evaluating work environment.

Job Location

Where your job is located can have a big impact on your daily life. Think about how far you'll need to commute.

Long commutes can eat up your free time and add stress to your day. Is the job in a city or a rural area? Each has its pros and cons. City jobs might mean more activities and amenities nearby, while rural jobs could offer more peace and quiet.

Also, consider the cost of living in the area. A higher salary might not go as far if you’re in an expensive city.

• How long is the daily commute, and is it manageable for you?
• What transportation options are available?
• If you need to relocate, what is the cost of living in the area?

Possibility for Work-Life Balance

You don't want a job that takes over your whole life. Look for companies that value your time outside of work.

Check if they offer flexible hours or the option to work from home.

Some companies even provide extra days off or have policies that encourage you not to work overtime. A good work-life balance helps you stay happy and healthy, and it's great for long-term job satisfaction.

• What’s the work arrangement like? Is it flexible?
• What are the company's policies on overtime, and how frequently is it required?
• What are the employee testimonials like?

Training and Learning Opportunities

Nobody wants to feel stuck in a job with no room for growth. That's why it's key to look for jobs that offer training and learning opportunities.

See if the company supports professional development, like paying for courses or certifications. Mentorship programs can also be a big plus.

These opportunities help you improve your skills and can lead to promotions and better job prospects in the future.

• Is there any training programs for new hires?
• How does the company support employees ongoing learning?

Colleagues

Having friendly and supportive colleagues can make a big difference in how much you enjoy your job. During the interview process, try to get a feel for the company culture.

You can often get a sense of this by asking about team dynamics and seeing how current employees interact with each other. A positive work environment with great colleagues can make even tough days manageable.

• Are the people there collaborative and welcoming?
• How is the team dynamics in the company?
• Are there opportunities for employees to network and build connections with colleagues?

Evaluating the job position involves assessing how well the role aligns with your skill, educational background, and career aspirations. Read the job posting carefully and try to answer these questions.

• What are the day-to-day responsibilities of this role?

• What are the key skills to success in this role?
• How does the company support career progression?
• What’s the career path look like for this position?

Check if your skills and qualifications align with the job requirements.

Most job listings include a section outlining the necessary qualifications, like a certain degree, years of experience, or specific technical skills.

Compare these with what you have. If you’re a recent graduate, look for entry-level positions or internships that require less experience. If you’re an experienced professional, seek roles that match your expertise.

If you meet at least 50% of the job requirements and it meets your aspiration as well, don’t hesitate to pursue the opportunity.

▶ Read More: What Jobseekers Must Know: 7 Tips for an Effective Job Searching Process

Whether or not a salary work for you comes down to two things.

First, does the pay cover your lifestyle needs?

And second, is it on par with what others in the market are getting?

To help you decide on this aspect, Epicareer has a salary report with the information of average salary ranges for various positions and locations.

Other than that, you should also consider the overall benefits package before saying yes to an offer. The benefits package can make a huge difference in your overall compensation. Look for things like health insurance, dental and vision plans, retirement savings plans (like a 401(k)), and paid time off. Some companies even offer cool perks like gym memberships, wellness programs, or student loan repayment assistance.

Make sure you understand exactly what benefits are offered and how they fit your needs.

Ready to take the next step in your career journey?

Head over to Epicareer to explore a wide range of job opportunities in Singapore.

Whether you're seeking a role in a dynamic startup or a well-established corporation, Epicareer has the resources and listings to help you find the perfect match. Start your job search with Epicareer today and take a significant step towards achieving your professional goals.

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