What Matters Most to Today's Job Seekers? According to Fairygodboss Members, It's These 4 Things

What do job seekers prioritize in their job search? Today’s market is volatile, to say the least, and many of us have changing wants and needs. Of course, the hiring process is also constantly in flux.

That’s why we checked in with the Fairygodboss community — to find out what matters most to them as they look for new roles. Here’s what they said. 

1. Opportunities for growth.

“Top for me would be a leader that can help me develop and grow into more senior roles within an organization.” — Anonymous

“Company culture and mission, salary/total compensation package, and the ability to learn  and advance.” — Kimberly Mc

2. Company culture and transparency.

“Follow up: if a firm answers you even to tell you they are not pursuing your application or going with another applicant, it's more impressive to me than ghosting — a.k.a. ‘Don't call us, we'll call you...never’." I would definitely apply again if another position opened up or the person they hired didn't work out for some reason.” — Stephanie Lekowski

“I think point one would be a company that does not ghost during the hiring process. From there I want a work culture and ethic culture I believe in, where I am valued and paid fairly.” — Anonymous

“Having a sense of belonging, purpose, and contributing to the ‘why’ of a team or organization.  Also being able to apply my strengths is key….Having the fit makes a world of difference.” — Kimberly Graham

3. A supportive team and manager.

“The most important thing for me is having a sane, invested manager who will help in my career growth and advocate for me. I’m also looking for a positive, structured work environment. I’m not going to settle until I get the right job fit.” — Anonymous

“Working with a team that has your back, is there to support one another, not sabotage you.” — Anita Getz

“Decent work environments that are interesting and challenging but without the toxic, mediocre middle managers who focus on micromanaging. Real growth opportunities. Equity. Flexibility.” — JJ Pruett

4. Compensation, flexibility and benefits.

“More flexibility with remote work. I left my last position for flexibility when the owner of the company never wanted to be flexible. Benefits to include 401k match, generous PTO policy (and no pushback when wanting to take time off). Culture. It starts from the top!” — Anonymous

“Working remotely is No. 1 (I do a job that is completely possible to do remotely). It would also have to be an exciting/appealing/engaging role. We spend so much of our lives working, I can’t imagine slogging through something that doesn’t interest me.” — Anonymous

“For me, it is compensation, benefits and work-life balance. Obviously, we all need to make money, I carry the benefits for my family and my time with my family is very important. I need to know that if something comes up, my company will understand if I need time away, but conversely, the company should know that I am not a 9-5 timeclock puncher and I am willing to do what it takes to get the job done.” — Shelly Edwards

“For me, it's definitely compensation and work-life balance. I want my employers to value what I bring to the table, and also respect that while work is important, my life outside of work is equally important.” — Yngrid Chacón

As a job seeker, what’s most important to you? Sound off in the comments!

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This article reflects the views of the author and not necessarily those of Fairygodboss.

What's the no. 1 value that matters most to you during a job search? Share your answer in the comments to help other Fairygodboss members!