Entering the Workforce: Finding the Right Company for You

As a recent graduate stepping into the professional world, it is crucial to ensure the company you choose values dignity, respect, inclusivity, and prioritizes health and wellness for all employees. Here are some tips to help you determine if a company is the right fit for you during the interview process.

Pre-Interview Research

Researching the company before you apply is essential, but if you have already been invited to an interview, make sure to do your due diligence. Thoroughly review their website, social media pages, and read the comments on their ratings. While not all comments will be accurate, they will give you a good sense of the company’s culture. Look for policies, statements, or articles about company initiatives, and use this information to ask insightful questions during the interview. Also, observe if diversity is represented on their website.

During the Interview Process

Remember, an interview is a two-way street. While the company is assessing if you are a good fit for them, you should also evaluate if they are a good fit for you. Prepare a list of thoughtful questions to ask during the interview. It is important to address any potential biases, such as age, gender, sexual orientation, race, ethnicity, religious beliefs, or disability. Here are some questions to consider:

• Can you tell me about the most recent initiatives your organization is most proud of?
• I read about (XYZ) on your website. Can you tell me more about that and how it fits with other organizational priorities?
• How does the organization support individuals with disabilities?
• How does the organization support individuals from diverse backgrounds?
• How do you ensure that all voices are heard, and employees feel valued?
• What programs are available for underrepresented staff, and what training is available for all staff regarding DEI?

As an HR professional for many years, I have always found it frustrating when candidates have no questions prepared. It can give the impression that you did not prepare for the interview, did not research the company, and are just looking for any job. This might not be accurate, but it is the message it sends.

In-Office Interviews

If you are invited for an in-office interview, take the opportunity to observe the environment firsthand. Here are some things to note:

• Do you see diversity in race, gender, and age?
• Are staff members engaging, smiling, and saying hello?
• Do interactions between staff members appear respectful and engaging?
• Would a person with a disability be able to maneuver easily throughout the office?

Diverse teams bring different perspectives, leading to innovative thinking and better decision-making. An inclusive culture contributes to employee satisfaction and lower turnover. Each generation entering the workforce has the chance to set the tone for the next, so it is important to hold organizations accountable for creating and maintaining cultures that prioritize inclusion, diversity, equity, mental health, and overall wellness for all.  Entering the workforce can be stressful, putting forth the time and effort to make a good decision is well worth it in the long run.