Everyone goes through a job switch eventually. How difficult could it be? Well, it can range from a walk in the park to a grueling and time-consuming litany of tests and interviews, including one with the founder’s mother (I kid, I think). But what everyone can agree on is that when switching jobs, you want to make sure you are making the right decision. Because let’s be honest, time at the office takes up most of our week, so we better not dread going there. Want to make sure this is true for your new job? Here are 10 things you should consider before making the switch:
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Co-workers
Do you want to interact with these people on a daily basis? Would you be against going to get a drink after work with them? Does the HR director seem approachable? Is the tech team friendly? Is your potential manager a leader?
Culture
This is a popular term thrown around about workplaces. Does the team seem to have a singular personality? Do you fit within it? What vibes does everyone give off?
Office Environment
Welcoming? Inclusive? Common areas? Quiet areas? Lunch options? You want to feel comfortable in the place you work and you want to feel it best suits the way you work. For example, if you need quiet, you might want to work in a place where you have your own office and can easily close the door.
Work Hours
When are your emails being responded to? Have your interviews been scheduled at similar or varying times? If you are a morning person, you may want to work in a place where everyone gets in early. On the other hand, if you like to sleep in and feel more productive in the evening, a 10am-7pm job might be a better fit.
Responsibilities
Will you be doing the same or different stuff at this new job? Will these responsibilities change or grow over time? What will the role lead to in three years time? If you like doing hands-on work, you want to make sure your new role supports that. The same is true if you are looking to move into management.
Travel
Is the company global? Or going global? Do you want to travel accordingly? There’s also a big difference between ‘occasional’ and ‘frequent’ travel. It’s a good idea to make sure your thoughts on those terms align with the company’s definitions.
Benefits
Retirement savings and insurance plans? Commuter benefits? Company bus? Free snacks? Unlimited company apparel? It’s important to figure out what is important to you and see if it matches what is offered.
Compensation
Is the salary market rate? Amount of equity? (If told a number of shares, ask what percentage of the company this is, and what was the latest valuation.) Bonus structure? There are many ways to be compensated so you want to be clear about how, when and why (say performance-based bonuses) you’re getting paid.
Dress Code
Ready to dress up every day? Or dress down? Some of this will depend on what type of role you’re taking. For example, if you are interacting with clients or potential business partners, your daily outfits will likely look different than other roles.
Company Mission
Would you be proud mentioning what you do at a cocktail party? If not, are you okay with that? Again, we spend a lot of time working, it’s nice to be happy about what we’re doing.
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