When Construction and Built Environment Professionals conduct job searches, they use indicators to identify potential employers. These indicators helps them identify signs that a company may be the right fit. They also use green flags to speed up their job search and move closer to accomplishing their career aspirations. So we asked them to share green flags they keep their eyes on.
1. A clear vacancy advert
It all starts when you respond to the vacancy advert. A good vacancy advert ad shows that the company knows what it wants in an employee. A good vacancy advert should at the least indicate clearly the following: the purpose of the job, educational requirements and the required competencies.
2. The interview process is organized and includes your direct superior
We’re so used to being confused during the interview process, but it’s a major green flag when the interview process is organized. It’s also a good indication when clear steps have been laid out to show you how you’ll be proceeding to the next stage of the interview. This shows that the company has a system and everyone communicates well — no one is left confused. If the interview includes your direct superior instead of someone higher up in the management, it’s also a green flag. It shows that the company values the opinions of non-senior staff. Your direct superior is the one you’ll be working closely with, and it’s a great opportunity for the both of you to meet from the start.
A well organized interview process is an indication of an organized employer HR function which complies with basic labor requirements like providing employment contracts before a new employee can join the team and offer employee benefits.
3. The interviewer is honest
When you’re at an interview, it’s good practice to ask the interviewer some challenging questions. After all, the interview is a two-way process. It’s not just you who’s getting interviewed for the job — you’re also interviewing them to find out if the job is suited to you.
One of the great ways to identify green flags during the interview process itself is to ask the interviewer what challenges the company faces. Get into detail about whether internal or external, and if there is a plan to remediate them. It’s a chance to see how the interviewer reacts and whether or not they’re honest about their shortcomings. You’ll also find out if they see a need for change. If the interviewer is honest, it’s a green flag that they’re being transparent about their shortcomings.
4. Leadership is accessible
Once you’ve got the job, it’s time to use your probationary period to your advantage. Take these few months to really scope out your workplace—observe the relationship between your peers and superiors. Are they comfortable with approaching their superiors for work advice? Do your superiors welcome inquisitions warmly? If they do, it’s a green flag and you’ll know that you can always readily go to your superior if you have questions.
5. There are clear goals to achieve for promotions
A major green flag to look out for is whether a company has set out clear goals that its employees should achieve to go up in ranks. It shows that there is a clear-cut, transparent process in place. Employees then know what they need to achieve in order to receive a promotion. No employee will be left in the dark wondering if favoritism was in play, or why they haven’t been promoted.
6. The management trust its employees
We’re in an age where remote or hybrid working is becoming the norm. Mutual trust is needed between the management and employee to ensure that the latter continues working during the allotted working hours. Some companies have set systems in place, but as long as those systems are not invasive in nature, you can consider it a green flag that the management trusts its employees. This means no invasive staff tracking software installed on computers or having your Microsoft Teams status constantly on green. Conversely, the employee should also reciprocate on this trust system by being reachable during working hours.
This trust is often accompanied by gratitude shown towards employees when they have achieved great things
7. Commitment to Communication
Good companies keep the lines of communication open with their employees. They want workers to come forward with any concerns or questions. At the same time, business managers provide workers with feedback. Together, employees at all levels can work together to achieve common goals. The result: the business stands out from its rivals and offers a terrific place to work.
8. Encourages additional Education
One of the questions to ask in an interview is how a potential employer trains and educates its employees. It often pays to choose a company that prioritizes career advancement. When a business tries to upskill its employees and provide ongoing training, it offers opportunities for workers to enroll in college and university classes. In doing so, the company helps its workers gain the skills they need to succeed. This is an indication the company has your best interest at heart
9. Healthy Work-Life Balance
A company that requires its employees to frequently work long hours can put its personnel in danger. In this instance, employees are increasingly prone to exhaustion and burnout. Comparatively, a first-rate business understands the value of a healthy work-life balance. The company ensures its workers receive comprehensive support. And employees are well-equipped to feel and perform their best day after day.
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10. Cross-Department Collaboration
Seek out a potential employer that has a company culture that promotes collaboration across departments. An employer that wants to avoid departmental silos,recognizes the value of having all of its workers on the same page. Thus, the employer limits the risk of miscommunications that otherwise can lead to poor work experiences.
11. Ongoing Desire to Improve
Find a company that wants to get better. The best businesses never rest on their laurels. Rather, they innovate and explore opportunities to improve every day. These companies encourage their employees to do the same, too. Therefore, joining a company that drives its employees to give their all can help you realize your full potential.
You can identify these companies by their reputation in the industry, work history and how they have executed past projects.
Ultimately, no company is perfect. There will always be shortcomings and challenges to face. The only difference is finding out which shortcomings you’re willing to accept and which ones you’re not. These green flags should serve as a guide for you to look at the bigger picture of what a non-toxic workplace culture should be.CAREERTIPS are compiled with the input from both industry employers and Professionals
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