This list can be a bit overwhelming, so as we get to the three things to take with you, let’s start by knocking out the salary negotiation overwhelm, and:
1. Rank them. Not 1-33, heaven forfend. Break them up into three categories: “Must have,” “Nice to have,” and “Don’t really care.” Don’t be rigid about putting 11 in each category. It’s better to be honest with yourself and really think about what matters to you, so you can make well-informed job search decisions.
2. Consider the bigger picture. Job benefits contribute significantly to both your “total compensation” as well as your work/life balance and job satisfaction. For example, would you take a modest reduction in salary in order to telecommute two days a week, saving gas and giving you extra time with your family? For some professionals, that’s a slam-dunk yes. How about you?
3. Don’t limit yourself. Every year, in Fortune’s 100 Best Companies to Work For issue, they review the benefits offered by the listed companies. And the one of the best sections every year is their “Unusual Perks” list. Though the list above covers the most common benefits you could encounter, it’s not the be-all, end-all. And some of those unusual options might be enough to propel a company up to the top of your targeted job search list.