Searching for a new job can be stressful and there are a lot of things to think about. When you are trying to decide on the next career move you want to make, it can be useful to make a list of requirements and a pros and cons list for each job you have applied for. These categories may help when creating that list.
Location
This is usually top of the list for most people because it can have a massive impact ton their work-life balance. If you have to suffer a 1+ hour commute easy way to and from work every day then this really starts eating into the time that you get to spend at home. Traffic and late trains all contribute to a miserable commute.
Where the office is located in relation to other shops and restaurants is also important. If you are someone who likes to grab lunch on the go or head to a coffee shop for meetings then you will need to make sure there are sufficient facilities within walking distance of your new place of work.
Salary
After the location people tend to look at salary. For most people, it is more important that they are happy in their work than the salary they are on. That’s not to say you shouldn’t have it on your list. If you will need to commute further to a new job, will a raise in salary cover this? If you are taking a drop in a salary you will want to think about the lifestyle commitments you will need to give up in exchange for a lower salary or working fewer days a week.
Health care
Doing your research and preparing the right questions at interview about healthcare and other related benefits and payments should get you the information you need. Should you ever need to make a claim or if you get injured at work, doing research into what you will be entitled to is also a useful activity.
If you are injured at work you may be entitled to workers comp. Many people ask are workers comp benefits taxable. The answer generally is no but if you are receiving other benefits that may change. Doing online research and speaking with your potential employer is the best way to gain the right information.
Working Environment
While at interview you should try and see as much of the office as possible, especially where you will be working. Take note of how light it is and if it’s somewhere you think you could be comfortable working. Is it an open-plan office or do people have cubicles? Will you have your own office?
The office atmosphere is also important. If you like working in silence, does the office seem loud? Are you allowed to put headphones in while you work? All of these factors ultimately impact your work performance and your happiness at work. Finding this out beforehand will stop you from having to leave a job a few months in because you don’t like the working environment.