Whether you’re actively looking for a new position, have been headhunted, are in the recruitment process or have been offered a new position, ask yourself whether you have qualified for the position and the company.

We have endlessly discussed how the hiring process is a two-way street; however, people still think that the hiring manager and company have the upper hand and that it is up to them to conduct all the qualifying.

As a candidate or potential candidate in a candidate-driven market, you have the upper hand.  Platforms such as LinkedIn are inundated with advertised positions that fit your profile, which means you are in control. Don’t be seduced by a position that simply offers more money or great benefits. Qualify the position and the company and ask yourself – is it a genuinely good career move?

A candidate-driven market means there is plenty of opportunity for you as a candidate. If you’re in demand, you’re probably being presented multiple opportunities a week. How should you qualify for the role to make sure you’re picking the right one?

Does the role have the potential for growth?

Accepting a position with a salary increase is great; however, does it have the potential for earning that some other roles which are paying less have? For example, a role which is paying £100k may only have the potential to earn you £70k in commission, whereas a £90k position may have the potential to earn you £500k in commission. Qualify the potential of the role as well as the package to make sure you’re not missing out on better opportunities. Do your research on the company and see what current employees are saying about them. Platforms such as Glassdoor give great insight into what people really think and what people are earning.

Who will be your mentor?

If you’re not constantly learning, you’re falling behind. The best way to learn is from someone with skills and experiences who can guide you and offer you mentorship. Ask about the leadership and development programs that are available in the company to identify what you will learn, how quickly you’ll learn and how dedicated this new company is to development and progression. If you’re failing to identify the company’s commitment to development and learning, it could be a red flag.

Working with a great mentor can be the difference between accelerating your career or staying stagnant. Learn how to get the most out of your mentor to utilise the opportunity.

What are your long-term goals?

An increase in salary or a more lucrative package may be attractive however is the role you’re thinking about a good career move? Your next move doesn’t have to be long-term, but it should be in line with your long-term goals. If the role does not offer a natural stepping stone to your career plans, then it may not be the right role for you. Big jumps or career changes can derail your potential for progression, so think about what the step will be after this one. If it hinders your future growth, steer clear of it.

Alternatively, could this role lead down a different path that presents more opportunities for growth? Discuss your future with the companies you’re interviewing with to see whether they will support and guide you to where you want to be.

Do your core values and missions align?

Cultural fit is one of the most important aspects when it comes to qualifying a company that you want to work for. Just like the hiring manager assesses you for cultural fit, you should be doing the same and qualifying the company. What do you think of the people you’ve been interviewing with? What are the company’s missions and growth plans?  Are you aligned, and do you see yourself working with these people? If you’re aligned with the company and the team, you’re more likely to succeed.

Understand your motivations for wanting to work for ‘that company’ and in ‘that role’ and align them with what the company can offer you.

Key points

• Always qualify the role thoroughly before accepting it. Consider potential for growth, mentorship, long-term goals and cultural fit.

• Look beyond the salary and assess how the role and company will impact your future career.

• Do your research. Utilise platforms such as Glassdoor to find out what the company is really like from the people who already work there.