Top 5 Must-Haves for Today’s Job Seekers

A key element in retaining employees is providing a supportive work environment (in-person or hybrid). Do they offer the latest technology devices to work efficiently and productively? Are they supportive of things that are important to you?  Is the office well-lit? Is it stocked with modern amenities? What does flexibility mean to them? Is hybrid an option? Ask to speak to some current employees about how they’ve used these policies. Progressive employers are regularly asking themselves how to retain their best employees and surveying their workforce to find out what’s most important. It’s ok to ask how often they survey employees and what they’ve implemented from those surveys. Read our recent blog detailing how workplaces can get more flexible here.

When you speak with current employees or read reviews on Glassdoor, are you getting the impression the company values employee's personal vs. work needs? Yes, you need to work hard to complete projects, meet a goal, or stay on deadline, but once completed do they give comp time off? How flexible and understanding will they be about life moments? Quiz them during your interview. Give a hypothetical life situation (e.g., your child becomes ill during work hours; your sister’s car breaks down and you have to go rescue her at 2PM) and see how they react. You can even ask for recent examples of their flexibility.

Employers are spending significant time and resources to attract and retain new employees. Culture is a critical component of that strategy. Asking questions about their culture is a great way to see if you connect with it. Is it inclusive? Do you get the sense they embrace diversity and openness? Is it collaborative? Are they actively involved in giving back to the community? What do they offer in terms of career advancement? Do they offer educational opportunities, training, and professional development? How do they demonstrate inclusivity? Would they consider ERGs (Employee Resource Groups) to help support their employees?

It can’t be the same old stuff; not in a highly competitive job market like this. Yes, they need a retirement match and stock options, if applicable. But how about generous PTO, a family leave policy (that goes beyond state mandated), a gym or fitness room or plan (for yoga or exercise classes), and healthy food options onsite plus fun, team-building activities, and gatherings?