This post was inspired by Lynn Fisher’s post Unordered, incomplete list of things I want from a job and my lovely former colleague Joanne Osbourne-Taylor. The dot points are based on the workplace attributes cards that were made by my wonderful friend Julia Birks.
I’m doing this because I need a place to direct others and a way to remind myself what I want/need from a job.
Must have
- Partially or fully remote– I can work partially or fully remote to help manage my wellbeing.
- Part time options– I can work reduced hours (part time work) compressed hours.
- Inclusive culture– The workplace is pretty inclusive of people who are trans, queer, disabled, neurodivergent, etc.
Should have
- Well-organised workplace– There is a level of structure within the organisation around tasks, policies, decision-making, and so on that aligns with my preferences.
- Unionised role or industry– The workplace or industry is unionised so I will have options for support if needed.
- Supportive mentors– I will have access to a mentor or leader who will support my growth and be at least somewhat available to teach me new things as I do my work.
- Do work I enjoy– The job requirements include enough tasks that are aligned with what I enjoy doing.
- Organisation’s values match my own– The organisation’s values align with my own values from a social, political, or emotional perspective.
- Good leave entitlements– I can access types of leave that will help me to manage my physical and mental wellbeing.
Added bonus
- Positively challenging– I will be able to do work I find positively challenging, and will allow me to stretch myself and build new skills.
- Good growth pathways– There are established growth pathways I can pursue within or outside of my discipline or department that are of interest to me.
- Development budget– There is a development budget available to me so l can invest in my growth and get certifications and new workplace skills.
- The pay is good– The salary package (including any superannuation) will meet my needs.
- Flexible hours– The work can fit around my study, healthcare, or other scheduling needs.
- Overtime options– The role is aligned to my preference for overtime: I will not need to work overtime, there is minimal overtime, there is time-in-lieu, or I can work overtime for extra pay.
- I like the people I work with– The people I work with are a good social, cultural or values fit.
- Work in an industry I like– The industry the role sits within is one I find interesting, enjoyable or motivating.
- Diverse work and tasks– The tasks I do in the role will provide lots of opportunity to keep things interesting and stimulating intellectually or physically.