Finding Green Flags in the Workplace

There has been a lot of talk about red flags in the workplace. The focus of this talk is on things for job seekers to look for to avoid a toxic workplace. However, while awareness of negative signs is critical, it is equally valuable to spot good signs to know you are moving toward the workplace of your dreams. The best businesses define themselves by their green flags, not the negatives.  

Finding green flags relies on knowing where, what, and how to look for them. These tips are meant to help you answer those questions. 

Know What You Value 

Finding the right company fit starts with knowing what you want from a potential employer. When you know what you value most in a work environment, you can get laser-focused on spotting those quality traits in other companies. 

Ask Current Employees 

One of the best places to spot green flags is to seek out the unfiltered opinions of the team that works there. Not only do these individuals have the best insights on the current state of company culture and goals, but it's also a great way to see if you are a good fit before applying for the company while networking with potential future teammates. 

Read Company Description 

How does the company describe itself? Look at its mission statement, the tone in its copy, and how it shares company values. Ask yourself, "Can I see myself working in a company that carries itself that way?” A company's first impression is its web page, presenting many of its best green flags. 

Evaluate Communication Quality 

It's not about what's said, but how it is stated in workplace communication that makes all the difference. When receiving correspondence from a company, look for green flags in its timing and the thoughtfulness of its responses. 

Green Flags To Look For 

While there are lots of green flags that vary from workplace to workplace, here are some of the best ones to look out for. Remember, lean on those areas you value most to ultimately make up your mind about what to look for. 

Company Perks 

The best companies offer perks to attract and retain top talent. Work flexibility, PTO, education bonuses, and mentorship programs are all examples of benefits the top companies strive to give their employees to differentiate themselves from the competition. 

High Retention, Employee Satisfaction, and Ex-Employee Support 

A company's reputation lies in the hands of its employees, former and current! When those who have worked for the company hold it in high regard, it's a good sign you found someplace special. Look to interactions between employees and the company on LinkedIn and job review sites to help find these green flags. 

Mission Statement Goes Beyond a Web Page 

Actions speak louder than words. When a company invests in projects and makes decisions that reflect its mission statement, it shows that it values its purpose beyond the superficial and has a real vision that motivates others to follow suit. 

Corporate Transparency 

Open communication is essential to building trust in the workplace. When a company is willing to be transparent with its team, stakeholders, and target audience, it seeks to foster a quality relationship with everyone it interacts with, showcasing a valuable brand to support. 

DEI 

The most monumental solutions are discovered when everyone has a seat at the table and has a voice that is valued and heard. When companies create a culture that supports diversity, equity, and inclusion principles, they empower everyone to bring their full potential to the workplace by feeling like they truly belong. 

Willingness To Change and Improve 

No company is perfect. Great companies strive to learn from their mistakes and constantly improve. When companies own up to their shortcomings and take action to become better, they show they are looking to grow, often alongside their new and existing team members in the process. 

Work/Life Balance 

When employees thrive personally and professionally, they can give their best efforts to anything they do. A company that respects work/life balance in its employees sees them as valuable team members and is often a great place to work. 

Employment Matches Made To Last 

Finding the right place to work is a lot like finding a good relationship. It takes a lot of effort and searching for the right green flags. Once you find that place, it's worth it! Be patient with the process and do your homework on each potential employer. 

It doesn’t hurt to find help along the way! Follow FM Talent for more career and employment tips!