Just a few short years ago, we wouldn’t have dreamed of publishing a post like this. At the height of the Great Recession, unemployment was sky-high, and job seekers were unlikely to “look a gift horse in the mouth” when offered a position.
How times have changed.
According to the latest U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Employment Situation report, the unemployment rate is now down to just 5.1 percent. Employment in professional and business services continues to trend upward, with tens of thousands of new jobs being added each month.
It’s clearly a job-seeker’s market.
In our current economy, exceptional professionals can pick and choose their opportunities. So before you make a career move, consider your options carefully. Ask questions in these four areas to determine if that new position is right for you:
Responsibilities
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Do I have a solid understanding of the work I’ll be doing? If not, clarify your responsibilities before accepting the offer.
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Do I fully understand the employer’s expectations? Be sure you know how success in the position will be measured.
Opportunity
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Is this merely a lateral move? If so, make sure it will benefit you in the long run.
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Will this opportunity get me to where I want to be in five years? If not, re-think the reasons you’re considering taking it.
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Is the company secure? Beware of red flags such as restructuring, frequent layoffs or recent controversial press about the employer.
Salary
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What’s the market rate for the position? Consult online salary calculators and adjust for experience, geography, room for growth, and other compensating factors.
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What does the benefits package include? Be clear on what you will need to contribute to health, dental and vision benefits – especially in light of recent ACA changes. And if the base salary isn’t where you’d like it to be, consider the total compensation for the position, including benefits, PTO, bonuses and profit sharing.
Culture
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Can I really work there? If you are used to laid-back, results-oriented management, consider whether a buttoned-up, corporate environment will be right for you (and vice versa).
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Do my values align with the employer’s? Even if the pay and benefits are great, a job might not be worth it if it forces you to compromise your values.
Looking for your next professional job opportunity?
Mom Corps can help you choose the best move for your career. With a wide range of professional part-time, flexible and direct hire opportunities, we’ll make sure your next position is one that fulfills your needs and provides the challenge and opportunity you crave. Search Mom Corps’ professional jobs near you.
