Accepting a new job offer is a big decision. If you make the wrong choice, it can have long-term repercussions for your career. Not only would you have to endure the stressful process of job seeking all over again, but you could potentially miss out on opportunities to grow and develop both personally and professionally with a company that puts their employees first.

When evaluating job offers, compensation is obviously important. However, there are several other factors to consider that are arguably just as important as your salary. What qualities should you look for to avoid being thought of as just a number? And how will you know, prior to accepting the job, that it’s with a company that shares your same values?

How to Tell If a Company Is Right for You

Here are the top 5 things to consider when searching for a new job, and how you can glean some insight into whether or not a company can provide you with the job satisfaction you crave before accepting an offer.

1) Communication

During your interview, the topic of goals will inevitably come up. The right company should not only be able to articulate their goals but show respect for your goals as well. After the interview is over, does their HR staff get back to you after an interview with timely follow up? Most candidates sit in limbo wondering if a company remains interested in them. Whether you get the offer or not, a good company will regularly communicate with you to provide updates so you are never left in the dark.

2) Values

We support each team member in achieving his or her highest potential.

The above statement is more than just a talking point we say during interviews; it’s one of the six core values that we live by every day. The values upon which a company is built tells existing and prospective employees what they believe is important. As you’re researching a company, find out what their core values are and how they hold true to your own. Does the company culture meet your vision for your future needs? Do they value the same things you do? Looking into a company’s workplace awards will help you determine whether or not a given company practices what they preach.

3) Leadership

Everyone has a boss; but how will your boss empower you to grow your skills? You can learn a lot about your future boss in an interview, but it’s also important to ask the right questions to get a sense of their leadership approach. A good boss is someone who is as good at listening as they are at giving direction. Will they support you and challenge you to step outside of your comfort zone and learn something new? Are they willing to listen to your needs and help you create a roadmap to achieve them? Your boss should be someone who holds you accountable for your responsibilities, but also someone who values your work and supports your desire to grow and learn.

4) Benefits

Be sure to factor benefits into the overall compensation package. After all, stellar health insurance options, 401k matching programs, training and certification reimbursements, and performance incentives can quickly add up to significant cost benefits for employees. Beyond monetary incentives, benefits such as office massages, company parties, flex time, and an overall attention to employee wellness and happiness say a lot about how much a company is willing to invest in you.

5) Compensation

Let’s face it, this wouldn’t be a “Top 5 List” without talking about money. When it comes right down to it, most people aren’t satisfied in their career if they feel they’re not being well compensated for the skills they bring to the table. Although I would argue that the quality of work life is equally important to your job satisfaction, the ideal company should be able to provide both. When narrowing down your options, make sure you go with a company that can communicate with you a path to promotion, higher pay, and more incentives down the line.

When it comes to acquiring and retaining top talent, we here at BDO Digital know that giving employees what they need to be happy and successful is critical to the success of our business. As the saying goes, “happy employees make happy clients.” Therefore, we ensure that every employee received a positive experience from the very beginning.