CONSIDERING A NEW JOB

The most common reason for taking a new job is increased pay. While more money isn’t a bad reason, it is not the only consideration in thinking about your overall happiness at work. Money can’t buy everything, after all.

Before accepting a new position, ask yourself the following questions:

1. WILL I BE CHALLENGED OR LEARN ANYTHING NEW?

You might have started your job search with the idea of taking an “easier” role to reduce the stress in your life. But you could eventually find yourself feeling underutilized. Feeling challenged is important to feeling successful and believing that your work has meaning.

2. WHAT OPPORTUNITIES ARE THERE TO GROW PROFESSIONALLY?

This is important, especially if you have ambition and expect to move up within the company. Look into what continuing education or workshops the company offers, and ask if the company pays for employees to attend conferences or to obtain additional certifications.

3. HOW WILL I BE EVALUATED?

You need to know what the company’s ruler is for success, how often your performance will be measured and how supportive the management staff is to ensure employees reach those goals. Don’t start a job if you are unsure of how your performance will be assessed.

4. WHAT IS THE OFFICE CULTURE, OR WORKPLACE FLEXIBILITY, LIKE?

Company culture plays an integral role in our overall happiness and workplace satisfaction. If you like to be around people, the “team spirit” and collaborative nature of a workplace should be very important to you. Also note any policies that suggest workplace flexibility, such as the option to telecommute or parlay overtime hours into personal time off.

5. HOW IS LEADERSHIP HANDLED WITHIN THE COMPANY?

Basically, who will be your boss and what is that person’s leadership style? A good manager is key to a healthy work environment. While no one is perfect, you should look for behavior that suggests your manager wants to see employees succeed and grow.