Read any best workplace list and you’ll find companies that offer benefits and programs designed to ensure employee satisfaction. With such great perks in place, it would seem as if just about any best place to work would be a great choice for a job seeker.
To identify the best workplace for you, focus on the company’s culture and philosophy. Find recognized best places to work in your industry or region then dig deeper to discover which are best for you.
Finding a Best Place to WorkBest company lists can be identified by an internet search. Be sure you narrow your search to locate companies that are identified as best places to work. Some best company lists recognize organizations for accomplishments that are not directly tied to the employee experience.
Your internet search for a best place to work will yield a list similar to this:
- Fortune 100 Best Companies to Work for in America
- Working Mother Magazine 100 Best Companies for Working Mothers
- Best Companies in Arizona (or another state)
Best company lists are usually published on an annual basis. As you look at these lists, cross-check the current year against previous years. Companies that repeatedly win these awards have done a good job of infusing employee-focused programs into the workplace.
Look Closely at Best Places to Work
Examine your search results and eliminate lists that aren’t relevant. If you live in California and have no intention of moving, a list of best companies to work for in Texas isn’t helpful. Similarly, a list of best workplaces in engineering is not useful if you are an operations director in the food industry.
Once you have a set of relevant best company lists, you’ll notice that some organizations appear on multiple lists. This is also a good indicator of companies that make investments in employee-focused programs.
Using this research, you’ll end up with a handful of companies that are recognized repeatedly, over multiple years or by multiple award sponsors. Create your short list by selecting the companies in your industry and if applicable, preferred region.
Finding the Best Place to Work for YouNow the real work begins. It’s time to take a deep dive into these companies and learn as much as you can about the company culture and work experience.
Read their websites closely, understanding that any company’s website is designed to put its best foot forward. Consider the language and words used. Do they depict a fast-pace, where decisions are made rapidly, or a more conservative, consensus driven environment? Some companies may describe traditions and history in detail, while others devote the majority of space to forward planning and long-term goals.
If the website has a publications page, download the most recent annual report or community benefit report, if a non-profit. Read for tone and style as well as content. How things are said can be as valuable as what is said. Look at photos; determine if the image projected is formal or more relaxed.
Reviews from current or past employees as well as from job applicants can be found on websites such as Glassdoor.com or Vault.com. Look for trends; identify the most common themes.
You can also send an email to the company and ask for information. Be upfront about the fact that you’re researching the company as a possible future employer. Ask for any material that may be helpful, such as an employee handbook, benefits brochure or mission statement. Many companies don’t distribute these to non-employees, but some do.
A Best Place to Work has a Unique Culture
Once you have as much information as you can find, imagine yourself working in the environment. Success in a job depends in large part on how well you fit with the company’s style and culture. By taking time to learn all you can about the many companies that are designated as best places to work, you’ll find a best company that is best for you.
Lillian LeBlanc - Ms. LeBlanc is an HR exeutive, commercial pilot, skilled public speaker and published author. She holds an MBA.
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