Why do you want to work for this company? This question is always asked in job interviews, and we should ponder on this before going to that interview. Choosing a company to work for can be challenging because it is where you will spend a significant amount of time and energy building your career. Many factors come into play, such as the company’s offered employee benefits, the overall stability of the firm, and your career growth.

Having said all these, here are the steps on how to properly choose a firm that is perfect for you:

  • What Do You Want to Achieve for Yourself?

The first thing that you should consider is what you desire. This significantly affects your level of job satisfaction and your performance in the long run. It would help if you looked at what industry you want to work in, in which you may consider your chosen major.

Look at what drives and motivates you. A common question to ask yourself is, “What do you want to achieve by working for that company?” or “Where do you see yourself in 5-10 years?” Some people focus on a specific job title/position. For example, you want to be a regional manager in one of the top fast food chains in the world. In that case, you will look for jobs that can be your stepping stone in achieving the goal of being a regional manager. 

  • Make a List of Potential Companies

At this point, you will now identify your alternatives, considering everything that you listed on the first item. Do research, learn about the company’s history, inquire with peers, and absorb any helpful information you may need in making the decision.

Do you want a small or large firm? In a large company, you can expect financial security. Still, you may have difficulty advancing your career because of the tight competition among your peers. You may stay in that position for a very long time. As for small companies, they provide an avenue for creative thinking, which opens more opportunities for personal growth and getting a lot of practical experience. However, a small firm has fewer assets/resources, and benefits.

Also, consider the firm’s performance to assess its overall stability by looking into its financial statements. This part is crucial because if you plan to stay in that specific company for a long time, you must gauge if they can sustain paying your salary.

  • Deal Breakers

After evaluating the potential companies, we now look at the relationship you will have with the company you intend to work for, which are the deal breakers of your decision.

Take into account the vision and mission of the company. The employees’ goal must also be the company’s goal to ensure growth and improved morale for both. This fosters unity that keeps everyone motivated to achieve the broader organizational goals.

Consider the benefits that come with the job. These include but are not limited to medical assistance, uniform or clothing allowance, housing benefits, and other personal expenses the company agrees to shoulder. Many companies provide educational assistance for their employees because they may consider it an investment. As the employee graduates, they will provide their services to the company depending on their contract. Large firms have the upper hand in this aspect.

Another major thing to consider is the work environment. Many people think of their workplaces as “toxic,” which makes them hate going to work. A positive and healthy work environment is essential for the employee’s productivity, emotional well-being, and job satisfaction.

These are some of the factors that contribute to employee turnover, which refers to the number of employees that leave the company and need to be replaced within a certain period. A high employee turnover is definitely a red flag that should be avoided.

Conclusion

Success doesn’t always mean achieving a high position in corporate or having a high pay grade. Choosing a company where you will flourish personally and professionally while maintaining a work ethic that will advance you and your organization is more important. Being in the right position at the right firm and in the right industry, where you will be the happiest and most productive, can help you achieve true success and reach your full potential. As Confucius says, “Choose a job you love, and you will never have to work a day in your life.”