It's a job rich market our there, here are 4 things candidates should know about...
 

1. Employees have increase negotiating opportunity. 
 
Companies are having to evaluate whether they are doing enough to keep employees happy and to attract new talent. What does this mean for you? Well, it means you’ve got room to negotiate. Flexible working, pay and conditions whatever will make you happiest and most successful in the position.  So, take advantage, but don’t take the ****. Companies are struggling out there and remember that we’re in this together. What goes around comes around and as much as employees are in the driving seat now, it wasn’t that long ago that they weren’t.  One caveat I would add to this is that for some companies hybrid working isn’t an option for often very valid reasons so I guess my advice would be to be flexible in your approach and also realistic.
 
2. Vaccination status may become a factor.
 
This is a hot topic, there’s no mistaking that and no matter what your views are you need to decide whether you’re comfortable or not disclosing details. It’s happening in the US; it may happen here in time.
 
3. Don’t be bowled over by perks.
 
What is important in a job role is the company culture, not the perks. Sure, they’re attractive and even sometimes fun, but endless games of ping pong, drinks with the boss on a Friday afternoon will soon pale into insignificance if the culture of the organisation isn’t right for you. Think about:
 

• How does the company handle work-life balance? 
• How do they address burnout? 
• Do employees feel psychologically safe? 
• How does the company prioritise creating a culture that ensures all employees feel seen, heard, and valued? 
• How did the company look after its staff in 2020 during lockdown?

 
4. Location matters
 
Location based working is still predominant. Companies that can, are offering hybrid working but we’re not yet seeing much remote working on offer. Be clear about your aspirations and what you can manage going forward.  Again be realistic – I don’t have any jobs that are fully remote and am unlikely to get those in.  Yes more companies are offering hybrid working but as I said before some companies can’t offer it.