Choosing a Job with Potential
Salary is a very important factor in choosing a job, but it's not always the most important one. Evaluate the total compensation package: salary, insurance, paid leave, stock options, retirement plan, and other benefits.
Once you've placed a dollar value on the employer-provided benefits, evaluate other aspects of the job, but remember that there are some things you can't put a price tag on, such as training and experience. The best jobs will prepare you for the next step in your career by teaching you valuable skills and providing on-the-job training.
Evaluating a Potential Employer
How can you choose a job that has potential and doesn't end up being a dead end? When evaluating a potential employer, find out as much as you can about the industry. What's the history of growth in the industry and what's the anticipated future need for goods and services produced or provided by that industry? Is the industry trendy? Is it subject to government regulation? If so, what's the possible impact on the company?
Education is important in qualifying for many good jobs. Sometimes just having a degree will get you the job — even if the degree is not in a related field. That's because successfully completing a degree program says a lot about you to a prospective employer. That's not to say that there aren't good jobs that don't require a degree, but they usually require some type of skill.
Also find out as much as you can about the company or organization. Check for newspaper and magazine articles. Detailed information, including current financial information, is easily available at your local library or online if the company is publicly traded. Is the company financially stable? What are its size, reputation, and growth potential? How do the company's products or services compare to those of the competition?
If you know anybody who has worked for the organization, find out what you can about the company culture and atmosphere and the quality of management. Ask him if you can take him to lunch and pick his brain for thirty minutes — your treat. It will be worth every penny.
There may be times when you need a job — any job — and you don't have the luxury of being selective, but you don't have to stay in one that's a dead end. Continue your search even after you find employment if the job doesn't provide you with what you need.
Evaluating the Job
What can you find out about the job itself? Is there a training program or opportunity to obtain additional education? What are the day-to-day tasks and duties? What is the level of responsibility? Who will you report to and what is that person's leadership style? What are your potential coworkers like? Does the job require travel, weekend work, or working long hours? What are the salary and benefits package? If the salary seems low, are there benefits that compensate for it?
Choosing a good organization and a good job can make a vital difference in your job satisfaction, opportunities for advancement, and salary potential. Do your homework in advance; it can pay off in both the short and the long term.
