How can you assess if an organization is suitable for you?

When searching for a new job, it's important to think beyond just qualifications and salary. To make an impact and grow your career, you need to assess the type of company and working environment that will best suit you. Here are some key things to consider before applying for a job:

Consider what's important to you about an employer.

Do you thrive in a more traditionally structured company or a startup where every day brings a new challenge? You should have a sense of the type of company and culture that is most appealing to you. Think about the size and culture of the company, the type of leaders you hope to work with, the training and education opportunities available, and how the company encourages social responsibility efforts.

Get a sense of the company’s purpose and culture.

Check out the company's website, blog, and social media to get a sense of its purpose and culture. Pay attention to how the business communicates its values and goals, and look at how customer service teams respond to queries or issues online. Read the thought leadership articles of executives and senior leaders at the company to get a sense of the issues they care about.

Reach out to your network.

Talking to someone with first-hand knowledge can help answer many of your initial questions and give you a better sense of whether the company is right for you.

Read the job description carefully.

One way to get a sense of the company and its culture is to read the job description slowly and thoughtfully. Look for details about growth opportunities and the soft skills the company is seeking in a candidate.

Consider the communication during the interview process.

Pay attention to communication during the interview process. Consider the level of personalisation and tone used by team members and think about whether the company seems like a place where you would quickly feel comfortable.