One of the best parts about my job as Chief Talent Officer at Plancorp is introducing new people to our firm and our partners at BrightPlan. Not only do I get to tell them about the cool things we do to help people achieve their financial goals, but I also get to hear their answers to questions like, “How did you get interested in our industry?” and, “What do you want out of your career?”
No two people answer those questions the same way. I’m always fascinated to hear personal accounts of how planning for the future (or lack thereof) made a difference in someone’s life, and what is influencing him or her to consider working with us. I have heard people cite our fun culture, our ethical reputation, and our progressive team environment. These are exactly the things that make me proud to collaborate with this team of smart, passionate people every day.
Raising the Bar: Standard of Living
Imagine my delight to add one more reason to the list of why people should want to work with us. The Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis just published this report comparing living standards across U.S. metro areas—a key factor when considering where to reside and work.
As a native St. Louisan, I’ve long known how fortunate we are to enjoy a relatively high standard of living. However, this top 10 list not only features my home city, but also Nashville —the location of our newest Plancorp office—and San Jose, home to our sister RIA, BrightPlan. Awesome, right?
Find the Right Fit
I took the report from the Fed as a cue to share a few important things—including, but not limited to, geography—to consider when deciding where to work. Whether you are searching for your first job or making a mid-career move, set yourself up for success by making sure the answer to all three of these questions is “yes.”
1. Will I learn from and enjoy the people I work with every day?
You don’t have to be BFFs outside the office, but it’s important to have some shared values with your coworkers. Also, whether you are the CEO or an intern, there’d better be someone who has expertise you don’t. If you’re not continually learning on the job, boredom will set in quickly.
2. Will I be accepted for who I am and valued for the gifts I bring to the table?
You can stuff your feet into uncomfortable shoes for only so long. Make sure you have a good fit: one that allows you to be your authentic self and feel gratified by the value you bring to your team.
3. Will I have the kind of lifestyle I desire in the city where I’ll be living?
Consider the things that most influence your happiness: your residence, your commute, and your personal budget. If you can’t afford rent and food while also saving for the future, then no matter how interesting or glamorous the job seems, your quality of life is going to suffer.
These questions require you to do a bit of soul-searching. Take time to evaluate your values, the gifts you bring to the table, and what aspects of your lifestyle most influence your personal happiness. Then, ask yourself if these considerations align with those of your future employer. If the answer is “yes,” you’ve found a good fit.
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This post was written by a member of InspireHer, Plancorp’s Women’s Initiative, which strives to advocate for clients and women in the community by addressing topics specific to their financial lives. For more information about InspireHer and how you can get involved, email inspireher@plancorp.com.
