How do you know that the position you’re interested in is the right fit for you? Obviously, you will want to consider the salary and benefits, but making the right match goes far deeper. Here are seven things to consider when deciding whether a position aligns with your long-term goals.
Growth Prospects
Where do you see yourself in five years? This may be a common interview question, but it’s also something you should ask yourself during your job search. Set at least two long-term goals for your career, and then decide whether a particular position will help you move in that direction.
Organizational Values
No matter how much a position might help you grow, you won’t be happy if it isn’t the right fit for you. What are the organization’s core values? Do they align with yours? Working someplace that doesn’t exactly mirror your mindset can stretch your thinking, but you should be compatible on the biggest issues.
Company Culture
Are you a buttoned-up professional or more of a jeans and t-shirt person? Do you want a remote or hybrid position, or do you prefer being onsite every day? What about scheduling? Are you a night owl or a morning lark? Do you like working longer shifts in exchange for an extra day off? Figure out what the practicalities of your dream job would look like, and then find a role that meets as many of those as possible.
Career Development Opportunities
Even if the actual role doesn’t offer a lot of room for advancement, you might be able to get some valuable career development out of it. Does the company offer tuition reimbursement or onsite certification courses? What about mentoring or job shadowing? Find out how you can grow professionally outside of the specific position, in a way that will bring you closer to your long-term goals.
Networking Potential
It’s not what you know, it’s who you know. This old saying is especially important if you’re trying to land a dream job at a well-known company. You might take an entry level position as a foot in the door, or perhaps take a similar position with a competitor. The goal is to get to know people who might be able to help you move up.
Work-Life Balance
Even when you’re trying to get ahead, work-life balance is essential to avoiding burnout. Make sure you’ll have plenty of paid time off, as well as the ability to fully disconnect at the end of your shift. Don’t be afraid to ask current employees how much the company values work-life balance.
Autonomy
No one wants to be micromanaged. Choose a role in which management is there to support you, but also trusts you to do your work. Autonomy also gives you the opportunity to grow creatively as you figure things out.
Ready for your next role?
Cardinal Staffing has been matching candidates across Ohio and Michigan with just the right light industrial, administrative, and professional positions for nearly 30 years. With deep roots in these areas, we’re experts on the local job markets. Contact us to learn more or start searching for your next position today!
