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Finding a job you love matters for any employee. While a job is ultimately a way to earn money, it can also be much more than that. As you look to make a career move or change organizations, use the following top five tips for finding a job you will love.

1. Look at What’s Made You Happy So Far

Too often, people fall into a career path without considering whether or not it is what they truly want to do. Whether you have been working in your current role for years, or you are just beginning your search for the right career path, it’s important to understand what will keep you engaged and interested. Creating a list of what you have enjoyed in the past is an easy way to see the bigger picture.

2. Do Your Research 

It’s easy to be wooed by a flashy job description or be sold on the perceived perks of a new role. Before you jump headlong into a new job, do your research about the company and the claims they’re making.

Start with searching for reviews of the business online. For most established companies, you can find reviews from previous employees and customers. These will provide a rounded look at how well the business treats people.

If you already have connections at the organization, ask current or previous employees you know about their personal experience with the company. While everyone will experience a situation differently, if you see that most customers and employees loved the company, or hated it, you can gain a fairly good understanding of what to expect.

3. Bring Questions to the Table

Before you go to an interview, prepare your own set of questions. This is your time to gain insights into the organization and try to glean information about your potential manager.

Questions you might ask include:

• What is the work/life balance like here?
• What are your expectations for this role?
• What does a successful (Insert job title) look like to you?
• How do you help your employees grow?
• How would you describe the culture here?
• Why is this position open?

Asking questions during the interview process will give you more information about the company and role, with the added bonus of making you look well-prepared.

4. Pay Attention to the Benefits and Culture

Your job should provide you with more than just a paycheck. As you compare different positions, pay attention to what benefits are offered and what the company culture looks like. In many cases, the type of culture you encounter at work will play a large role in whether you are happy there. For example, if you value autonomy, look for an organization where you can take on projects independently. Conversely, if you are passionate about building relationships with your coworkers, seek out an organization that promotes networking and team-building.

5. Pick a Place That Aligns with Your Values

Finally, nothing will lead to burnout quite as quickly as working somewhere where your values are misaligned. Before you apply to a new job role, take the time to vet whether the organization has the same values as you do.

Being happy at work isn’t just about enjoying the job you are doing, but it is also about being able to bring your whole self to work every day. When your values align with your employer’s values, you’ll find yourself motivated to do your best. This will also make it easier to meet like-minded individuals on your job, leading to fulfilling relationships and team camaraderie.

While there is perhaps no such thing as a perfect job, we should at least strive to love what we do. Whether you are currently unhappy in your role, or are thinking of expanding your horizons to bring a new challenge into your life, look for a job you will love doing. And remember, it is never too late to make a change.

This article was adapted by Shaylyn White. You can view the full original article by Ladders at: https://www.theladders.com/career-advice/top-5-tips-for-finding-a-job-you-love