Check out this list for some of the most important factors to consider when looking for your first job:
1.) Room for growth
A respectable paycheck is nice, but it's more important to consider whether a job can offer you growth opportunities.
2.) Exposure to new skills and knowledge
Experience, as they say, is the best teacher. When looking for a job, be sure to choose one that will help you develop new skills and broaden your knowledge. This way, even if the job doesn't end up being a long-term career, you'll be better for it and more knowledgable when taking on future positions.
3.) Varied responsibilities
A first job will not necessarily be your long-term career until you retire. You might find yourself being asked to assume responsibilities you'd never thought you would have to handle, however, look at it as a positive factor. The opportunity to explore new tasks will help you find your likes and dislikes.
4.) Benefits
Finding out which - if any - benefits are offered is also an important factor. Standard employee benefits include health insurance, a 401K, paid time off and sick leave. Working for a company because they can offer a higher salary but no benefits can actually leave you with less money in your checking account than what you started at.
5.) Company history
No matter how exciting a position sounds, it's important to do your research about the company itself. While you might be interested in a young startup that promises advancement, a well-established company with a proven success track offers more stability.
6.) Don't expect perfection
It's important to remember that no job is perfect. Make your own list to determine what is truly a non-negotiable to you and what you would consider dropping if everything else fits well.