How to find a job you'll love
The average person spends 90,000 hours of their life at work – so it helps if you enjoy what you do.
It’s one thing to find a job you love. It’s another thing to make sure that love will last. So, we’ve put together this list of a few things that might help. They’re less red flags, more green flags!
Flexible working opportunities
Working patterns can vary depending on the type of job you’re looking for. But these days, many employers try to offer flexibility with working hours.
A 2022 survey by software firm Ciphr found that 67% of workers thought that work-life balance was among the most important aspects of a job. Whereas, only 59% of those asked ranked the pay package as one of the most important things.
Are flexible hours key for you? Then it’s worth looking into what your employer or potential employer offers.
Commuting distance and cost
Long distance relationships can be tough. Found the perfect job but don’t want to move or simply can’t? You need to know that the commute will be sustainable in terms of your time, money and energy levels.
Remember though, flexibility or different arrangements can be explored during your interview.
Childcare
Do you have childcare commitments?
As well as flexible hours, some employers offer vouchers to help with the cost of childcare. It’s worth researching.
Skills match
To love your job, you need to find it fulfilling. And to find it fulfilling, it helps if it’s a good match for your skills. In fact, not just for your existing skills, but for any that you want to develop further too.
Culture and values match
Feeling a sense of pride in your employer can help you take pride in your job too. Do your employer’s values match your own? Maybe you’re interested in things like their sustainability policies, how far they go to make sure they’re inclusive or which charities they support?
If some values are really important to you, take time to research your potential employer’s policies around them.
Ambition match
Nobody expects you to be in the same job forever. But it’s always handy if you find a role that gives you a chance to grow. Can you get promoted? Can you build your skills? Is there a path for you? If the answer to these is yes, there’s a better chance of making a working relationship that can last.
Like any relationship, it’s about compromise and communication. Know the deal breakers for you and your potential employers and understand what’s up for negotiation.
