Though it may not be the first thing you think about when applying for a job compared to factors like your salary and future opportunities, many professionals will tell you: in the long run, you’ll want to find a potential employer whose values align with your own. For one, working for a company that shares your fundamental beliefs will allow you to perform at your best—physically, mentally, and emotionally—which is key to both your professional growth and the growth of the organization itself. If you and your employer share similar values, you’re more likely to find purpose and motivation in your daily tasks and gel better with the people you work with.
Even if your employer’s values are not always the reason you apply for a job there in the first place, they will matter with regard to how long you choose to stay. They will contribute towards your overall satisfaction in your role and, crucially, your future role as a leader and changemaker. In contrast, a mismatch in values can lead to frustration, burnout, a shorter tenure with the company, and more regrets as opposed to goals met in your professional life.
All that being said, how can you find out if a prospective employer shares the same values with you? Is this possible to ascertain as early as when you’re looking for listings for job hiring in the Philippines or in another country you’re based in? Indeed, you can get started by looking out for the following signs when interacting with a business that’s interested in your skills and capabilities:
1) The Company Has a Clear Mission and Vision Statement
A well-defined mission and vision statement indicates that the company knows what it stands for and what it aims to achieve. Take a close look at these statements when researching the company, as they reveal the core beliefs and long-term goals of the business.
As you’re reviewing these principles that guide the organization, ask yourself: do these values align with your personal ideals? For instance, if a web development or SEO company emphasizes creativity or innovation in its operations, and those aspects are also important to your professional development, it could be a good match. When an employer’s mission resonates with you, it will give you a sense of purpose and direction for your work, which can then help you feel more motivated to give your best and to work well with these particular people.
2) Employees Speak Positively About the Company Culture
Listening to what current or former employees have to say about a company will also prove to be a valuable way to assess its culture. If employees describe a positive and supportive work environment that reflects values like integrity or work-life balance, that’s a good indicator the company genuinely cares about its workforce.
It’s possible to find employee reviews on sites like Glassdoor, LinkedIn, or even social media. While you’re reading the reviews, look for patterns in how employees describe the culture, especially if they mention traits or values you also hold dear. Positive comments about management’s transparency, inclusivity, or supportiveness can signal that the company values its employees’ well-being, potentially making it a better fit for you than others.
3) The Company Prioritizes Employee Development and Growth
A company that invests in employee growth demonstrates that it values the long-term success of its people. If career development, training programs, or mentorship opportunities are part of a company’s offerings, this is a good sign they are committed to nurturing their team. Also, employers who prioritize development are better poised to create an environment where you can keep learning and evolving, which will further engage you in your role.
Meanwhile, consider your own values related to professional growth. If you value continuous learning, for example, a company that provides regular skill-building workshops, performance feedback, and advancement opportunities will likely be a great fit for your own career goals.
4) The Company Emphasizes Work-Life Balance
Take into consideration whether work-life balance seems like just a buzzword for a company or something that’s truly part of the fabric of their organization. If they express an understanding of employees’ personal time and family commitments, it’s likely they care about your life outside work, which can guard you against burnout and ensure that you’re in a supportive environment where you feel valued as a whole person.
Look for signs that the company promotes a healthy work-life balance. This can include flexible working hours, remote work options, or policies supporting personal time off. During interviews, ask about the company’s stance on work hours and expectations for availability outside regular working hours.
5) Social Responsibility Is Part of the Company’s Practices
For many jobseekers, a company’s commitment to social responsibility reflects its ethics and willingness to positively impact society. This could include anything from environmental sustainability initiatives to supporting local communities or being involved in charitable causes.
If giving back to the community is something you value, working for a socially responsible company can give you a sense of pride and purpose in your work. Additionally, companies engaged in corporate social responsibility (CSR) tend to attract like-minded individuals, which results in a workplace community that shares similar values, outlooks, and perspective for how to make the world (and not just the organization) a better place.
6) The Hiring Process Reflects Respect and Transparency
The way a company conducts its hiring process can reveal a lot about its core values. A respectful and transparent hiring process shows that the company values integrity and is considerate of any person’s time, let alone an employee’s.
Notice how the company communicates throughout the interview process. Do they provide clear timelines, set realistic expectations, and follow up as promised? Do they seem open to answering questions and giving honest feedback? If the answer to these questions is yes, you have positive indicators of a healthy, honest work culture where employees are valued and trusted.
Ultimately, if you’re part of a company that values what you value, your work becomes more meaningful, your relationships with your colleagues will be good ones, and you’re likelier to have a more positive outlook on your career. Pay attention to these signs so that they can help you identify an employer that not only allows you to stay true to your professional goals, but also your personal principles.