It used to be that workers could just look for a new job based on the job description, the pay and compensation, and the hours required. But today’s workforce is entirely different, with hybrid variations of in-person and remote working, contracted work, pay requirements, and customized benefits plans.
Many people are not happy with their jobs today or are considering a career change because of a renewed perspective driven by the pandemic, forcing a more in-depth look at career trajectory. One key contributor to an unrewarding career is that people have chosen a role that doesn’t inspire them or challenge them.
Don’t just take a job because the pay is good, especially if you’re not enthusiastic about performing the work. Finding a job where you can be both challenged and inspired is essential for a happy, healthy work-life. If you’re actively seeking to make a career change, these are the key elements to look for in a new job.
A Company That Fits Your Needs
It’s important to look for a company whose values fit with your own. For example, if you are passionate about sustainability, you will want to find a company that shares that same value. There are easy ways to find out what a company’s values are. Look at their website or social media accounts. Ask colleagues or people who have worked there in the past to learn more about a company’s brand vision.
Causes and Contributions You Deem Important
If you have causes or beliefs that you hold dear or vehemently support, you can look for a new job with a company with similar beliefs. Companies will often give back to their local communities and list various contributions they make or causes they support. Working for a brand that aligns with what’s important to you can provide that inspiration you need, regardless of the role you’re tasked with filling.
Opportunity for Growth
Sure, you’ll want to inquire about compensation for the work. But also, be mindful of opportunities for growth and promotion. Ask about others within the company who have successfully graduated to leadership positions or made lateral moves to other departments. Check the employee reviews online to quickly identify if a company is experiencing high turnover, a sign that maybe it’s not a great place to work.
Find a Company That Values Your Success
A company that values its employees as individuals and as team members contributing to company success is ideal. Look at what a company offers that demonstrates this value ideology.
Current and Ongoing Training
It’s no secret that today’s workforce dynamics are changing. Jobs are becoming more specialized, and employees are required to have a wider range of skills. That’s why job training and ongoing training are so important when looking for a new job. They ensure that you’ll be able to do the job well and that you’ll have the latest resources and information at your fingertips for continued success.
Support Resources
Having a variety of levels of support at your new job is important for your overall success. This includes job-specific support, such as training and problem-solving; human resources support, such as coaching and mentoring; and supervisory level support, such as conflict resolution. Each of these levels of support will help you to be successful in your new position. If there aren’t at least a few support resources at your disposal, you might want to reconsider. Any company that doesn’t offer some form of support effort to ensure employees have the tools and resources they need to perform the job is not likely to be a good fit.
Company Culture and Benefits Matter
Company culture is the set of shared values, behaviors, and practices that shape how people act at work. It can be a powerful amenity for attracting talent – and retaining it. Happier employees are more productive, and they stay on the job longer. Today’s companies are more keenly aware of their company culture, and as a candidate, looking for company culture details can help you make your career change decision.
Employee Perks and Amenities
Inquire about employee perks when you’re applying for a new job. These might include on-site extras like healthy snacks, employee of the month recognition, or community break areas for time out from the desk throughout the day. You can also inquire about remote working opportunities, expense reimbursement for travel, and companywide get-togethers. These all will help you discern the overall value the company places on its employees.
Company Benefits
It’s still an interviewing best practice to ask about the company’s benefits offerings. These might be traditional benefits like paid time off, vacation days, and sick time. But you’ll also want to learn about the company’s health insurance benefits. Businesses used to almost always opt for group health insurance whereby employees contribute monthly to premiums and are bound by certain in-network provisions.
Many of today’s companies are leveraging an ICHRA model or the Individual Coverage Health Reimbursement Arrangement. Under ICHRA, participating employees find and enroll in their own health plans via the ACA exchange or off-exchange and then submit receipts for specific out-of-pocket costs for reimbursement. These are becoming vastly popular among employees because of the flexibility and affordability of health insurance, along with the company reimbursements for direct expenses related to healthcare.
Consider these tips when you want to know what to look for in a new job. And let W3LL be your guide to understanding ICHRA or navigating the ACA Marketplace.
