I just graduated with my Business degree and have had several interviews, but how do I know which company is going to be the right one for me?

Coming straight out of school, it is hard sometimes to know what job to take. To start with, that first job out of school can be pivotal to your career in terms of getting that initial 2 to 3 years of experience that other companies are going to want to see down the road. It is important to make a wise choice that you will be happy to stick with for 2 to 3 years, creating experience and accomplishments.

Besides the job itself—whether you are an accountant, an engineer or marketer, looking at the intrinsic natures of companies will help you determine if you are going to fit in.

Here is a short list to consider while evaluating your options:

1. The people you will work with. Do you like them? Are they bright? Is there someone there that will act as a mentor so you can develop?



2. Industry. There are so many choices, but do not take a job in a industry that you have no interest in or disagree with their products on a fundamental basis; i.e. pet products if you don’t like animals or hardware if you can’t stand to go into Home Depot, etc…



3. Management Style. This can be a tough one out of school, but ask about expectations, how feedback is given, how often department meetings are held…ask your prospective peers.



4. Location. Be realistic. If you have never lived away from home, moving 800 miles away may be too tough of a transition. If you are not into driving, do not set yourself up for a long commute. You stand a greater chance of early burn out.



5. Size Matters. Are you comfortable being one of many? Do you want a large company environment where you specialize more in a particular role or do you prefer a smaller environment where you wear many hats and can know all the players.



6. Travel. Make sure you ask up front for the worst case travel scenario. Is it 20% or 50%. Do you need a passport? International travel can be exciting, but not if you hate to fly.



7. Work Environment. Study the environment during your tour. How do people dress? Are they loud? Cubicles or office? Can you see yourself coming here every day…?



8. Innovation. Lastly, in every company interview, ask about new product or new service development. How do they rank innovation in their company’s goals? Innovation instinctively breeds creativity and excitement which will make whatever company you choose much more interesting to stick to.

Back to the Archives Page

Got a question? Ask here.