Finding the perfect match
Once you've finished studying and have that degree in your pocket, it isn't always easy to know which job or company will suit you best. You lack any kind of experience in making that choice – after all it is your first job. That's why it's so important to consider deeply the employment choices you have. There are some simple tips, however, that may help you to make the right choice. Let me share some of these with you. What do you find important? Be clear on this Spend some time evaluating what's important to you, from both a professional and personal standpoint. For example, do you feel more comfortable working flexible hours or do you need a set schedule, with regular 9 to 5 hours? Do you want to be creative at work and influence the organization around you or is it more important for you to have clear directions and guidelines on how to work? Would you like to work in a team or would you prefer to work independently? Take time to consider these questions – and discuss them with your partner, friends and your family. Get to know your potential employer's corporate culture The work cultures of corporations differ depending on the types of products or services companies provide and the customers they address. Company heritage plays an incredibly large role too in shaping how corporate cultures develop. It is the people within a company who define what that company “feels like”. While you'll probably be able to find plenty of information about a company’s vision, financials, management team and offerings, talking to someone who actually works at the company will give you insights that you won't get anywhere else. Use any opportunities you have during recruiting fairs like the CEMS career forum to talk directly with employees, find contacts within your own personal network and use the time during job interviews to ask your questions. Trust your instincts Once you've thoroughly considered what's important to you and what the company culture is like – trust your gut feeling: If your inner voice tells you that this is the right company, then it probably is.