10 Things to Consider While Job Hunting

Thinking about starting a new career can be exciting and it can be helpful to know what to consider while job hunting to find your perfect match. It seems like everywhere you turn, businesses across all industries are looking for good team members. From entry-level workers to senior-level professionals, the market seems ripe for the picking as employees seem to delay entering the workforce and many others are retiring earlier.

The new generation of employees is wise in understanding that not all employers are equal. So, as you think about how you want to spend (or are spending) your working years, know that you have the freedom to choose. Here are 10 things to consider while job hunting:

1. Do your values align with the company?
Working for an organization whose values don’t align with your own will get old fast.

2. What are the soft benefits?
We know the pay is important, but what else are they offering? Do you have to wear a suit and tie every day? Are you chained to your desk? No flexibility to go to your kids’ school programs? High-pressure sales environment?

3. Do they allow for community involvement?
Involvement in the community is often so important to employees – and hopefully your employer too. This gives you a chance to be a part of something greater.

4. Is there autonomy in the position and the company?
Micromanaging and being watched over all the time is exhausting. Does the company offer you the autonomy to do what you need to do that’s best for your customer? We hope so.

5. Is there an opportunity for growth?
The saying goes, “If you’re not growing, you’re dying.” What is the path forward in your career? How can you advance your skillset and your wage? Are there opportunities within?

6. How do they appear on social media?
Take a peek around their Facebook, Instagram, website and other social platforms. You’ll be able to tell a lot about their work environment from seeing how they engage with customers and employees online.

7. Is continued education and ongoing learning encouraged?
Some employers limit ongoing education because they’re afraid that you’ll leave once you are more educated. At Deerwood Bank, we want to support our staff’s growth by keeping up-to-date with legislation that affects the banking industry and searching for bank-specific webinars and training that is taught by industry professionals. This way our staff can remain informed and engaged!

8. What is their leadership like?
Pay attention to the company’s leaders. Are they stuffy and pretentious or easy-going and engaging with their employees? Are they truly leaders or just “bosses?”

9. Does it seem like people enjoy what they do?
When you walk in for your interview, pay attention to how employees are interacting with each other. Are they genuinely engaged and happy? Or just there to fill a space? Work can be so much more than just a place to clock in and clock out.

10. Do they have a good reputation in the community?
Talk to friends and colleagues who either work with the organization or work at the organization. Are they known for being honest and loyal? Are they known for doing the right thing? What are they known for in the community? Is that what you want to be known for?

Employees desire engagement, fulfillment, and appreciation from their employers, and employers appreciate dedicated and loyal employees who give their best.

Deerwood Bank is thrilled to be your community bank, and we’d be honored to be your employer someday. Go ahead, check us against this list, we’re confident you’ll like what you find.