It’s called The Great Resignation, but if you’re currently thinking about starting - or even improving - your career, it might as well be named The Great Opportunity. That’s because employees have never been more in the driver’s seat when it comes to taking control of their jobs and the benefits that come with them. To make sure you take take full advantage of this powerful position, here are 11 things you should push for before making your next career move:
1. Competitive Compensation
It’s the main reason everyone works, but it’s also why many leave. If you accept a job, make sure first that the pay is enough to cover what you need. Many times industry leaders offer industry leading compensation, so looking at places that are tops in their category (like Service King) could be an easy way to earn more.
2. A Healthy Amount of Medical Benefits
From medical, dental and vision, to company paid disability, life insurance and more, employers offer many important benefits that affect you and your family. When interviewing, ask what providers they use, what they offer, and whether they start on day one, or if you would have to wait.
3. All-Important PTO
A good employer knows that all work and no play makes anyone burn out and resign. That’s why many top companies offer paid holidays, vacation days and sick days, so you have time to get your engines revving again. Ask how many days you get and don’t be afraid to ask for more if you need them.
4. Pay Beyond Your Paycheck
Remember, the numbers on your check aren’t the only way you can receive compensation. When Service King hires a Body Technician, not only do they receive a competitive hourly rate, they’re also rewarded with a signing bonus up to $2,500! Whether it’s bonus pay, a 401(k) or even commissions, make sure you take into consideration every way you can get paid.
5. The Support You Need
There’s little point in working if it doesn’t leave you the time and ability to take care of all the reasons you do it for. That’s why some companies offer services like day care, adult care, pet care and more. It’s a great way to save you money and peace of mind.
6. Opportunities to Advance
A career without a chance for promotion isn’t a career, it’s a job. When choosing companies, make sure there are not only opportunities to move up, but programs to help you do it. One way to see if a place promotes from within is by researching their executive team. If the President started out on the shop floor, it’s a good sign your career can grow there too.
7. Chances to Increase Your Education
Talking about moving up in your career is easy, but actually doing it requires time, work, and most importantly knowledge you might not have. That’s why many top employers offer assistance when it comes to your higher education, especially if it ties into your tasks. And it’s not just colleges or universities - blue collar companies like Service King currently offer an Apprentice Development program that’s an immersive 52-week training course certified by the U.S. Department of Labor for Apprenticeships.
8. Location, Location, Location
Every real estate agent says this important phrase for a reason, and it also rings true when it comes to your career - all the pay and benefits in the world won’t make up for a job if it’s in the wrong place. Plus, what if you decide to move? Can you relocate to another office? That’s why signing up with a company that has multiple locations around the country can be a good decision.
9. Community Involvement
A good way to learn how an employer will treat its employees is by seeing what initiatives they do for the local community. A company that is willing to put time, money and effort into the town it’s located in will also probably be willing to do the same for you.
10. Strong Job Stability
Another thing to consider when choosing an employer is their overall history. How long they’ve been in business is a good indicator on the stability of your employment. For example, a company that started 45 years ago inside a single body shop in West Dallas and has since steadily grown into the premier collision repair provider of choice across the U.S. is probably a good bet if you’re looking for steady, long-term employment.
11. The Company’s Values
They say when you work for a company, you represent that company, but in many ways, the opposite is also true. Before you choose a place to start your career, see if their overall values match your own. Are they focused on integrity? Family? Service? Quality? Growth? Or maybe like Service King, they have all of the above. Working for a company that values the same things you do can make all the difference.
Remember to take these top 11 career considerations with you on the road to a great career. To take the first step on that journey, click here.