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Top 5 Must-Haves for Today’s Job Seekers

Top 5 Must-Haves for Today’s Job Seekers

If there’s one thing we know for sure it’s that the job market is in constant flux. Since the job market has shifted to favor the job seeker, employers need to be on their game. At the same time, whether you are looking for a job or actively hiring, know that these are the things candidates need to know about an employer in making a decision.  If you’re thinking about what it might take to attract the best candidates or remember in your search, read on!

1. Great Reputation

The reputation of the company needs to be positive. Check online reviews of the company. Research the leadership team. Do a Google search to find their latest news headlines. Is the company profitable? What do they do to retain their top talent?  If a company is experiencing a high turnover rate, be sure to ask some tough questions to find out why it is so high. If turnover is low, what’s their secret to retention?

flexible-friendly workplace environment

2. Modern, flexible-friendly workplace environment

A key element in retaining employees is providing a supportive work environment (in-person or hybrid). Do they offer the latest technology devices to work efficiently and productively? Are they supportive of things that are important to you?  Is the office well-lit? Is it stocked with modern amenities? What does flexibility mean to them? Is hybrid an option? Ask to speak to some current employees about how they’ve used these policies. Progressive employers are regularly asking themselves how to retain their best employees and surveying their workforce to find out what’s most important. It’s ok to ask how often they survey employees and what they’ve implemented from those surveys. Read our recent blog detailing how workplaces can get more flexible here.

Work Life Balance

3. Work/Life Balance

When you speak with current employees or read reviews on Glassdoor, are you getting the impression the company values employee's personal vs. work needs? Yes, you need to work hard to complete projects, meet a goal, or stay on deadline, but once completed do they give comp time off? How flexible and understanding will they be about life moments? Quiz them during your interview. Give a hypothetical life situation (e.g., your child becomes ill during work hours; your sister’s car breaks down and you have to go rescue her at 2PM) and see how they react. You can even ask for recent examples of their flexibility.

Company Culture

4. Company Culture

Employers are spending significant time and resources to attract and retain new employees. Culture is a critical component of that strategy. Asking questions about their culture is a great way to see if you connect with it. Is it inclusive? Do you get the sense they embrace diversity and openness? Is it collaborative? Are they actively involved in giving back to the community? What do they offer in terms of career advancement? Do they offer educational opportunities, training, and professional development? How do they demonstrate inclusivity? Would they consider ERGs (Employee Resource Groups) to help support their employees?

Company Culture

5. The Things You Want

It can’t be the same old stuff; not in a highly competitive job market like this. Yes, they need a retirement match and stock options, if applicable. But how about generous PTO, a family leave policy (that goes beyond state mandated), a gym or fitness room or plan (for yoga or exercise classes), and healthy food options onsite plus fun, team-building activities, and gatherings?


These must-haves won’t necessarily land someone the job of their dreams (that they have to do on their own or with our help!), but they can help determine which companies to apply to and how to go about a new job search. Keep in mind, not all employers will advertise all these elements, so you’ll need to dig a little. If you’d like help finding your next role, or finding new candidates for your roles, contact us.  alaant workforce solutions

About the Authors

Amy Alvarez

Amy Alvarez, Director – Talent Acquisition

Amy has spent more than 20 years in the world of recruiting helping professionals find great jobs and companies find a good match to add to their team. Being organized has led to success and happiness in both her personal and professional life. She likes to spend time with family and friends, travel and watch movies. To date, Amy’s favorite place to visit has been Rome, Italy.

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