How to Select Your Next Employer

As a jobseeker, you spend a lot of time scouring job postings, pumping out resumes and praying someone will call you for an interview. When that call comes and you have a successful interview, you may be so excited that you overlook some "Red Flags."

Choosing a good fit for your next employer includes learning as much as you can about the job as well as the employer. The last thing you want to do is make the wrong choice and end up right back where you started… looking for a job. By doing a bit of insightful investigation, you will be better equipped to choose the right employer for you.

Step #1: Pre-interview Observation Learn everything you can about the company before you are interviewed. Search the internet to find company websites, news articles and other information. Talk to people you know as they may know about the employer or know people who can tell you more about this company. Libraries contain various business directories such as the Scott's Directory which can be a useful research tool.            

Typical information you might want to learn includes:

• What size is this company; how many employees and locations do they have?
• How long have they been in business?
• Are they ISO registered?
• Do they belong to the Better Business Bureau, the Chamber of Commerce or an industry association?
• How quickly did they respond to your application?
• Did they make you "jump through hoops" to apply?
• What is their reputation like with employees, customers, and in the community?

• Upon Arrival Do they display their company mission statement, awards and employee certificates in a visible place?
• Is the interviewer punctual, courteous and knowledgeable?
• Are staff members welcoming and looking happy?

Step #3: Communicating at the Interview

• Are you greeted with a handshake, eye contact and a smile?
• Do they make a written job description available to you?
• Are they clear about salary, benefits and reviews?
• Does the interviewer speak negatively about other candidates, past employees, the company or anything in general?
• Do you sense the company experiences high turnover?
• Do they promote continuous learning, offer training and career development?
• What is your sixth sense telling you? Listen!

Step #4: Negotiation after the interview 

• Do they seem sincerely interested or more like "don't call us, we'll call you?"
• During subsequent conversations, do they change any part of the offer?
• How willing are they to negotiate minor details, allow you to provide notice to a current employer or arrange for child care if necessary?

These are just a few simple things you can do to prepare yourself to select the right employer and fit for you. If you would like more information on how to research companies or improve your job search, please contact Lutherwood’s Employment Services. We can help!