How to find a job you'll love

It’s one thing to find a job you love. It’s another thing to make sure that love will last. So, we’ve put together this list of a few things that might help. They’re less red flags, more green flags!

Flexible working opportunities

Working patterns can vary depending on the type of job you’re looking for. But these days, many employers try to offer flexibility with working hours.

A 2022 survey by software firm Ciphr found that 67% of workers thought that work-life balance was among the most important aspects of a job. Whereas, only 59% of those asked ranked the pay package as one of the most important things.

Are flexible hours key for you? Then it’s worth looking into what your employer or potential employer offers.

Commuting distance and cost

Long distance relationships can be tough. Found the perfect job but don’t want to move or simply can’t? You need to know that the commute will be sustainable in terms of your time, money and energy levels.

Remember though, flexibility or different arrangements can be explored during your interview.

Childcare

Do you have childcare commitments?

As well as flexible hours, some employers offer vouchers to help with the cost of childcare. It’s worth researching.

Skills match

To love your job, you need to find it fulfilling. And to find it fulfilling, it helps if it’s a good match for your skills. In fact, not just for your existing skills, but for any that you want to develop further too.

Our work is going to fill a large part of your life, and the only way to be truly satisfied is to do what you believe is great work. And the only way to do great work is to love what you do.Steve JobsFormer CEO of Apple

Culture and values match

Feeling a sense of pride in your employer can help you take pride in your job too. Do your employer’s values match your own? Maybe you’re interested in things like their sustainability policies, how far they go to make sure they’re inclusive or which charities they support?

If some values are really important to you, take time to research your potential employer’s policies around them.

Ambition match

Nobody expects you to be in the same job forever. But it’s always handy if you find a role that gives you a chance to grow. Can you get promoted? Can you build your skills? Is there a path for you? If the answer to these is yes, there’s a better chance of making a working relationship that can last.

Like any relationship, it’s about compromise and communication. Know the deal breakers for you and your potential employers and understand what’s up for negotiation.