As a student, you are probably thinking about what will happen when you leave college or university and start working. You may already have begun the process of applying for jobs and sending out your CV to a variety of different places. However, there are some things that you should look for when applying for jobs that are important; applying for everything and anything just to get paid may be good for your bank account, but it won’t necessarily be good for your physical or mental health and happiness. Read on to see what you should be looking for in a job before you apply or accept a position.
Hours Of Work
Not every job is going to be atraditional 9 to 5 one, and before you commit to any job, you need to be sure of the hours that you will be expected to work. It’s important to know, of course, when your start time is, but how much work after hours is usually done? Will you be paid for this extra work, or is it just something that has become ‘the norm’ in this particular company? If so, when will you have time to relax?
It is also important to think carefully about jobs that involve shift work. This can take some getting used to, and not everyone is able to manage well with hours that change from week to week or even day to day; this kind of work can really have an impact on how you live your life. Make sure you know exactly what you are gettinginto before signing any contracts.
Up To Date Technology
We all know that the world is heading ever more towards a technology-based workforce, and for many, that’s an exciting opportunity. What about the company you are applying for a job in? Do they see the potential in new tech, or are they clinging onto the old ways of doing things? Ask about how they work, whether they have cloud based programs such as peoplexcd.com or is everything done in the office on a laptop, that could have security issues or stop working due to age or a virus?
Whichever company you choose to work in, it should be a forward thinking one. That way you know that there will be growth in the future and it will be a long term prospect that will offer you the chance for advancement in your career.
The Office Culture
Work isn’t just work– there is a social element to it as well. It is important that all employees are happy in their work and are productive, and that they all get on well. They don’t all have to be best friends, but if there is any animosity within the office, it can make it a difficult place to work in.
When you go for an interview, make sure you also speak to the people working in the company themselves. Ask about the atmosphere in the office and if they are happy working there. Ask about social events and what the company culture is really like. This way you will get a good insight into the office and you can determine whether it is the kind of place you would like to work in.
