People make finding jobs seem a lot easier than it is. Sure, you could probably walk into any retail store and get a job tomorrow, but it takes a little more time to find a job that suits your needs, such as scheduling, pay rate, benefits, job requirements, etc. I've gone through my fair share of job searches and starting over multiple times. While I don't claim to have it all figured out, I have found these helpful tips to guide me when choosing my next job.
1. Make sure you like the manager
After all, this is the person you will be working for, answering to, and spending lots of time with. If you get a bad vibe or don't like their work ethic, chances are you aren't going to like the job. Take time during your interview to get to know who you'll be working for, and let your gut decide the rest.
2. Make sure you like your coworkers
Again, this is super important because, at some jobs, you spend a lot of time with your coworkers and not your manager. If you find a job that fits this description, make sure you get to know these people as much as you can. The best way to make those training shifts fly by is to ask a lot of questions, and find things you have in common with your peers. These people WILL become your second family. Try to be as pleasant as possible, at least to those who show the same courtesy.
3. Make sure you like the work you're going to be doing
Sometimes, when you read the 'help wanted' signs, they don't describe every single function your job requires. Ask your manager what exactly the position you're applying for entails, and make sure you won't mind doing this five days out of the week.
4. Make sure the pay fits your lifestyle
While it is helpful to have any kind of job, you want to make sure the hours and pay the company is offering fits your needs. If you have mega bills to pay, maybe a part-time position offering minimum wage isn't the best idea. Unless you have two part-time jobs, but that's up to how flexible your schedule is.
5. Try to find something close to home
I used to HATE when my grandmother would go on about finding a job close to home. Sometimes it's just not possible! It used to frustrate me because I wasn't bothered by long commutes if the job was perfect in every other aspect. However, I just recently commuted 30+ minutes one way, sometimes even 40+ minutes if I was driving during rush hour, and it became very tedious. After all, this cuts into your time you can sleep in, stay out, and adds to your already long day. Not to mention, if you're running late, it's going to take you that much longer to finally arrive at work. If you can, try to find a job 15-20 minutes away from you.
6. Make sure you don't fall through the cracks
Some places desperately need help, and will make it a priority to get you hired and trained and on the schedule. There are some places that I've applied to YEARS ago that are just now calling me to see if I'd still like a position. Sorry, but no, I don't. If they don't see you as an asset, don't wait for them to figure it out.
7. Make sure it's a company you want to grow with
A company you're not passionate about could promise you all the promotions in the world, but if you're heart's not in it, don't take it. You'll just end up making yourself miserable, and in the end, is the money really worth your happiness?
