Which Company Should You Join? Six Key Considerations for Your Next Career Jump

Here’s a SYCK truth about navigating your career: In choosing a company, you’ll never be able to predict which one is perfect for you. What you can only do is guess – intelligently.?

I spoke with Naama Bloom, my former colleague, now a marketing executive who has encountered lots of twists and turns in her career. Having been a consultant, a founder and CEO, and a media person at different points in her life, Naama shared some insight on how jobseekers should decide on a company.?

By basing on six key variables, list your non-negotiables, then rank them. It’s also important to know that depending on where you are in life, some priorities will weigh more than others. Maybe a company could have been perfect for you years ago, but not now.

What should I base my non-negotiables on?

In no particular order:

Location

If you’re single and you don’t have responsibilities, this won’t be much of a factor. However, if you have a family or a partner, this could be on top of the list. Will you bring them along when you relocate? Now with Work From Home and hybrid office setups, you may only have to come to work a few times a month. But even with that, will the back and forths be worth it?

Work-life balance

Will you have a life outside work? Will work take up time from your hobbies or bonding time with your family? Do they respect boundaries? Oftentimes, those in senior levels are able to communicate this more confidently compared to staff. If you’re an entry-level employee, look for a company that recognizes your right to rest.

Fulfillment

Later in her career, Naama found herself looking for mission-driven companies where she can do good and make an impact. This variable largely depends on what you stand for. Take time to reflect on your values to at least pinpoint the industry that aligns with you. Your decision will dictate the difference you’ll make in the world.?

Healthy Workplace Culture

Working with a**holes, as Naama described, is really difficult. In your potential company, everyone should be treated with kindness and humanity – something related to the fulfillment variable. A mission-driven company attracts people who are driven to do good – while being good to others.

Compensation

Of course this is a factor, but the question is: How important is it? If it's your top priority, then it’s easy to decide. Best to consider total compensation, which includes your base salary, benefits, commissions, and bonuses. If these are priority number two or below, you’d have to let go of them to make room for other more important things - and that’s totally fine. No one will understand your path but you.?

Connections

Connections can make the job easier for you. With familiar colleagues, you’ll already have a proven track record, and you’ll settle into the organization at a faster rate with less stress. If, for example, you’re starting a family as you transition jobs, having someone from the inside will help a ton.

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