This blog has been updated to reflect the latest 2025 trends.
When looking for a new employer, it’s good to give yourself a few options to choose from. It’s good sense to apply for multiple jobs and be open to conversations with a few different employers. But what happens when you’ve got multiple offers on the table?
Finding yourself in hot demand can be a fantastic feeling. I mean, who doesn’t love that ego boost? But it can also present a conundrum: how to decide which employer is right for you?
Projects
The project itself can be a deciding factor for many. There is a myriad of new, upcoming and existing projects in defence industry at the moment. Some might appeal to you more than others, so think carefully about which ones are most suited to your background and skill set.
It can be appealing to hold out for the upcoming projects, however every project is not without its challenges. Are you more experienced working on mature projects, or does your experience lie in acquisition?
It’s also important to think carefully about which projects align with the areas you want to grow in. Perhaps you have a background in surface ships but want to gain submarine experience., for example. Although some roles require you to have platform specific knowledge, often your skills will be transferable across the industry.
Career Progression
If career progression is important to you then you need to ensure your new employer can provide the pathway you’re looking for. Ask yourself where you want your career to head in the medium to long term, does your new company offer a clear progression path?
Perhaps it isn’t a promotion that appeals most to you, but rather specialising in a particular field or technology. Many companies offer and encourage professional development, whether this is on the job learning or supporting you through relevant courses. There are also many mentorships and initiatives in place to help ex-ADF members grow their careers.
Cultural Fit
Considering most people spend a third of their lives at work, cultural fit is key. A good cultural fit is associated with higher job satisfaction, increased productivity and overall happiness.
Kinexus wrote a handy blog on this very topic, and is a great place to start: Mastering the Interview: How to Uncover Company Culture and Find Your Perfect Fit.
The other place to seek information on cultural fit to is ask people you know that work there. What do they enjoy most about their job? What’s the working environment or management style like?
And of course, if you have got the role through a recruiter, they should be able to tell you about the working environment and what an average day at the company is like.
Salary
Whilst this is important, salary shouldn’t be the sole reason for choosing your next employer. It can be tempting to jump ship (no pun intended) at the highest offer, but there are other things to consider.
What else does the company offer aside from salary? What job will be best for you in the long run? These contribute to determining job satisfaction over dollar value.
If you do need help or salary advice perhaps speak to a Kinexus recruiter; we survey the defence industry market, and they will provide you with information on the market rate for your skill set. Bear in mind this can vary depending on location, you might also need to consider higher living costs if moving interstate.
Along with the above, there are many other factors to consider when choosing your next employer, all of which need to be considered carefully. In the end, you should choose what feels right for you and your future career in defence industry.
