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Fresh graduates, who are motivated and seeking valuable experiences, enter the job market with specific expectations. They are determined not to accept the first job offer that comes their way. They have a variety of options and carefully evaluate the companies they are considering when launching their careers. What criteria are they prioritizing? How can companies attract them? This article discusses the main criteria to consider when selecting your first job after graduation.
The Company’s Culture and Work Environment
The company culture has a significant impact on your overall job satisfaction. Important factors to consider include the work environment, team dynamics, and company values. Would you say you are comfortable with the company’s culture? Do you look forward to working with potential coworkers? A positive work environment can improve your overall well-being and job satisfaction.
Recognition and Appraisal
When it comes to a job well done, everyone values praise and acknowledgment. When looking for a job, it is critical to understand how potential employers recognize and reward hard work and encourage professional development in their employees. Other performance-based incentives include trophies, bonuses, and annual vacations.
Security and Stability
A safe and stable working environment is one of the most important benefits that a company can offer its employees. This includes more than just receiving a paycheck regularly (though that is important), but also a track record of consistent success and job security. Even though it is impossible to predict that everything will go smoothly all of the time, a strong track record is a positive indication that the company can provide you with the environment in which you want to succeed.
Competitive Benefits
On paper, a company’s advantages may appear appealing. However, it is critical to investigate their benefits package to ensure that they are providing you with the resources you need to live a comfortable life. Common benefits offered by employers include 401(k) matching, health insurance, dental and vision insurance, and paid time off. For those who want to further their education, some businesses even help with student loan repayment or tuition reimbursement.
Career Advancement
Career advancement may look different for each individual. For some, it may imply working their way up to an executive position at a single company. Meanwhile, others may value honing their skills, becoming experts in their field, and eventually using those skills to pursue other opportunities. Regardless, having a general idea of where you want to be in five years can help you better visualize your career path at a specific company.
Commute and Location
Each day’s commute has the potential to greatly impact your standard of living. Both the job’s location and the commute time should be carefully considered. How much time does it take to travel to work? Is it feasible to coordinate the time and different forms of transport for the commute? Consider the time and money spent commuting to and from work when deciding on a potential job.
Time Commitment
The consideration of time is of paramount importance. Compared to salaried employees, hourly workers often put in less overtime. Usually, this occurs because they receive additional compensation for working those extra hours. It might seem reasonable to work a forty-hour work week if you are earning a wage. You should exercise caution, however, if your job description demands that you regularly put in 50 or 60 hours without pay increases. You can gain a decent understanding of a typical workweek by speaking with individuals currently employed in that role and researching it online.
Expenses
Costs are a necessary part of any job. Before accepting a new job, figure out how much money you’ll need for transportation, business attire, and living expenses. Even if you expect to advance in your current position, relocating to a more expensive city may cost you money. You should save money for a new professional wardrobe before starting your new job, as it can be costly. Season tickets can be expensive, so ask if the company you’re considering offers a “season ticket loan” to help with the payment.
Job Responsibilities
To be successful in a job, you must find a position that matches your skills and abilities. If you are most comfortable in a supportive role, it may not be a beneficial idea to take on a position that requires you to make significant decisions. Similarly, your role as a team member may differ significantly from that of an independent worker. To find the best job for you, you should consider your personality and the ideal working environment.
Team Collaboration
It is necessary to assess the team members’ ability to collaborate effectively. A supportive and collaborative team can create an environment that encourages learning. This type of team can also help you develop more quickly with their assistance. Keep an eye out for companies that value collaboration and encourage developers to share their knowledge on a regular basis.
Technology
Many different occupations require you to use a variety of technological devices, such as laptops, cellphones, and tablets. Before accepting a job offer, make sure you understand the company’s technologies and what you’ll need to bring to the table. A thorough understanding of the operating systems, hardware, and software required for your position would be advantageous.
Work-Life Balance
Finding a comfortable medium between your professional and personal lives is beneficial to your overall health and happiness. While jobs with high demands for short periods can be exciting and rewarding, it’s also important to strike a balance between these intense periods and breaks. Before applying, enquire about the company’s vacation, sick days, and work-from-home policies.
Finding a satisfactory medium between your professional and personal lives is critical if you are a working parent. A beneficial question to ask during an interview is what the company’s policy is regarding sick days (for both you and your children) and early dismissal for holidays.
Conclusion
Choosing your first job after college is a big decision, and there are key things to consider. Make sure you’re well-informed before deciding on your first job, as it can have a significant impact on your future career path. If you want to shine at work, choose an employer who welcomes you and surrounds you with like-minded people.