
While an attractive salary can be a strong motivator, many digital marketing professionals seek more from their careers. They aspire to work for companies that uphold values such as sustainability or diversity and inclusion, prioritize employee wellbeing, and offer opportunities for long-term career development rather than just a job.
In addition to aligning with a company’s values and ethics, professionals desire a workplace culture that resonates with them. This is particularly important given that the average U.S. adult is estimated to spend 90,000 hours at work—roughly one-third of their life!
But how can you identify a company that embodies the values you care about while fostering a culture you’ll genuinely enjoy being part of?
1. Investigate the Company

Start by gaining a thorough understanding of the company you’re considering joining.
- Examine the mission, vision, and core values shared on their website or in reports. These provide insight into their ethics, social responsibilities, and goals.
- Check for news coverage about the company. Has it faced controversies or received praise for initiatives or workplace culture on platforms like LinkedIn?
- Review financial reports (for large or public companies) to assess growth and stability. Comparing industry competitors can also highlight the company’s potential for long-term success.
- Look for accolades such as “Best Places to Work” or certifications like B Corp, which emphasize ethical and sustainable business practices.
2. Analyze the Company’s Messaging and Content

Social media, websites, and marketing materials reveal much about a brand’s personality and values.
- Look for content on diversity, sustainability, employee wellbeing, or community engagement.
- Examine their collaborations and initiatives to see how they engage with broader issues.
- For example, companies like Google showcase their commitment to values such as sustainability or inclusivity through posts and campaigns on platforms like X (formerly Twitter).
3. Use Employer Review Platforms

Websites like Glassdoor and Indeed allow you to read reviews and ratings from current and former employees.
- The Muse, Comparably, and Vault also provide insights into workplace culture, salaries, and benefits.
- Focus on reviews discussing work-life balance, transparency, and inclusion policies.
- Investigate policies on parental leave, mental health, or flexible work options.
- Behind-the-scenes content, such as employee blogs or social media posts, can give a genuine look at the company culture.
4. Connect with Employees on LinkedIn

Leverage LinkedIn to network and gain insider insights.
- Use the “People” tab on a company’s LinkedIn page to find employees and their roles.
- Reach out to current or former employees to learn about the work environment, leadership style, and culture.
- Employee advocacy, like sharing company posts or engaging with content, can indicate high employee satisfaction.
5. Research Leadership

The leadership team’s values and management style greatly influence workplace culture.
- Use LinkedIn or company reports to learn about executives.
- Media coverage or interviews can provide insight into their ethics and leadership philosophy.
- Subscribe to industry publications like Ad Week or Marketing Week to stay updated on leaders and their decisions.
6. Assess CSR Initiatives

A company’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) efforts reflect its commitment to meaningful change.
- Look for projects supporting nonprofits, reducing carbon footprints, or engaging in community activities.
- Other indicators include ethical supply chain practices, diversity initiatives, and employee-focused programs like sabbaticals or wellness benefits.
- For instance, Kellogg’s supports schools with breakfast grants, showcasing their focus on societal impact.
7. Evaluate Learning & Development Opportunities

Career growth requires ongoing learning.
- Research if the company offers mentorship programs, training, or career development initiatives.
- Companies that prioritize employee growth often provide both online and in-person training.
- According to a Docebo survey, 66% of workers consider quitting if their development opportunities are cut.
“Apply for jobs that not only match your current skills but also prepare you for your next career step.”
— Terry Payne
8. Consider Work-Life Balance

Flexibility has become essential in modern workplaces.
- Hybrid or remote roles are increasingly in demand, as they promote better work-life balance.
- Check the company’s policies on flexible work arrangements and tools like Slack or Monday for remote collaboration.
- A YouGov poll revealed that 48% of workers seek flexibility, with work-life balance being a top priority for 62%.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while a competitive salary is important, many digital marketing professionals seek more from their careers, such as alignment with a company’s values, a positive workplace culture, and opportunities for growth. By thoroughly researching potential employers, analyzing their values, culture, and career development offerings, professionals can ensure they find a workplace that supports both their personal and professional goals. Emphasizing work-life balance, corporate social responsibility, and continuous learning can lead to a more fulfilling career, ultimately enabling digital marketers to thrive in a supportive and values-driven environment