We all dream of having a successful and fruitful career in the future. This desire is actually what motivates us to study hard and do whatever it takes to be qualified for our dream job. This, however, is not a very easy process as it really takes a lot of planning and thinking in order to even decide what career path we are to take. Of course we all know that the kind of education and experience we will obtain over time will have a great effect in the quality of the career we will have in the end. This article aims to discuss to you some of the things you should take into account as you choose your career.
Distance
Would you like to be employed in a company in your own city or area? Or perhaps you would enjoy driving some distance every morning?
The distance you have to drive to go to work can certainly have a huge effect on which company you had better work for. Of course you will have to consider the gas prices and the inconvenience of traveling on a daily basis. A lot of long distance commuters have actually decided to either relocate or find another job mainly because of the hassles of traveling long distances.
Work Environment
Are you dreaming of someday becoming a big shot in the corporate world? Or maybe you are satisfied with a simpler and more laid-back company?
Being employed in a larger corporation means is the same as working in a more rigid and highly professional work setting. There will be dress codes you must follow and really strict company rules. In terms of competition among colleagues, you should also be prepared for a fierce one. Nevertheless, there are also many good things to look forward to in working for a huge company. For one, employees can enjoy greater benefits, ongoing training and even education.
Meanwhile, smaller companies tend to have less rigid rules and policies. This explains why many employees in smaller firms consider their workplace their second home. The likely disadvantage of being in a small company is the limited benefits you may receive as an employee. Job security is also often an issue as smaller firms are vulnerable to many external factors, such as economic recession.
Funds for Your Education
We all understand how expensive education is nowadays. If, for instance, you plan to become a New Orleans personal injury attorney, you may inevitably need to apply for student loans to support your going to law school. If you think you can handle such expenses, there is no reason for you to hesitate. But if higher education is something you think you cannot afford, you may as well consider applying to a company that will instead be the one to invest in your training or education.
There are now many corporations that are even willing to help in the education expenses of their employees’ children. Quite often, this type of benefit is available in large companies. All you need to do is to inquire beforehand about the benefits employees are getting from a certain company.
Career Advancement Opportunities
Even as you start in a lower position in a company, it will surely be your dream to someday be promoted to a higher position in your firm. Ask yourself if the company you are planning to apply to have many other high-ranking positions available to deserving employees. The last thing you would want is to be in a company where you will not be given any opportunity to learn new skills. Remember that the more skills you can develop, the more secure you will be in your position as this is going to be your way of making yourself an important piece of the company.
Salary
Most of us think of salary as the most important factor in choosing a job. Why not? Money is the reason we all have to work hard and survive in a competitive industry. So as you decide what career path to pursue, do not forget to think about the salary expectations for the positions you may eventually hold. However, you must also stay objective and reasonable in setting a certain amount of salary in your mind as your desired salary.
Salaries can greatly vary according to the job as well as the location. You may need to do some research so you can get enough information about the average salary for the job you are trying to apply for. Nevertheless, there are things you may do to increase the likelihood of you being offered a higher salary. One of them is getting a certification or anything that may prove that your competency. Many employers nowadays give preference to those with specialized skills and vast experience, and they are always willing to pay more for deserving applicants.
Cedric Loiselle is an experienced writer who enjoys imparting useful information to many readers. The topics he usually writes about include finance and career development, home improvement, and health.