Adhere to your career non-negotiables for a strategic job search

I believe you have to find out what you don’t like to get to your true passions. I always recommend to my clients that are still in college to pursue internships in different fields, take leadership positions on campus, and attend networking events. The key is to not pigeon hole yourself in early career. After gaining many different experiences this give you perspective and will help you clearly identify your career non-negotiables.

Career Non-Negotiables: Clearly identify what your standards are for your career. This includes: work location, compensation, company culture, work style (remote, hybrid, etc.), industry. Once these standards are set do not settle. If a job doesn’t include all or most of your non-negotiables, don't waste your time.

If we set standards for platonic and romantic relationships, why don’t we take the time to set standards for our jobs? Afterall, we spend more time at work than with our loved ones.

Ask yourself the following questions to determine what some of your career non- negotiables are and then tailor your job search accordingly.

Work Location

• Do I need to be in the office?

• Do I want a remote job?

• Do I want a hybrid work environment?

• Do I have the bandwidth for business travel?

Compensation and benefits package

• What are my minimum salary requirements?

• What benefits am I looking for?

Company Culture

• What type of company culture would I thrive in?

• Do I want to work in a diverse work environment?

• Do I thrive in a team setting?

• What are my values? Does the company I work for have to align to my values?

Work Life Balance

• How many hours am I willing to work?

• Is PTO a priority for me? If so, how much am I looking for?

• Am I looking for a company that has paid maternity leave or paternity leave?

Your career non-negotiables can go beyond the categories I discussed in this blog. Your career non-negotiables can change as you gain more experience and evolve as a professional. The key is to adhere to these non-negotiables so your job search is strategic. Stand firm in your job standards and don't settle for less out of desperation. Be strategic and continue to develop your negotiation skills so when you are in interviews you can clearly and confidently state your value but also disclose your needs.

If you enjoyed this article, read 23 Pieces of Advice for 20-somethings.