Whether it’s the result of a New Year’s resolution or an upcoming 2024 college graduation, this is the time of year when many people initiate job searches. So, here’s some advice for both workplace veterans and “newbies” alike based on how the world of work radically has changed in recent years:

1. You should expect to enjoy your work.

When people complain about their work they are often admonished, “Well, that’s why it’s called work” or “That’s why you’re getting paid to do it.” But it doesn’t have to be that way. Work consumes an average of 50% of an employee’s wakeful hours during a typical workday. You should enjoy that time.

Despite the stress, travel, and long hours, I love my job. I always have. It’s interesting; I work with great people, and I feel like I’ve had an impact. Of course, I don’t love every minute or every person I engage with, but overall, it’s been an awesome 29-and-a-half years with the same company. And it’s not just me. Newly published research we recently concluded, involving more than 11,000 employees worldwide, indicates that those who enjoy their work are half as likely to quit as those who don’t. You are about to put a lot of work into your job search; you don’t want to have to redo it.

Best of all, if you enjoy your work, you’re likely to bring more energy, enthusiasm and care to your job; outperform those who are just “clocking time,” and advance faster, since your employer will be happier with you too.

2. Little things mean a lot.

How can you tell you’re going to enjoy a job? Pay attention to the little things. Did they respond in a timely manner to your job application? Did they try to get to know you? Do the people seem sincere and pleasant? When you’re applying for a job, remember that the employer’s in “sell mode.” Pay extra attention to how they treat each other, how they treat the more-junior people, how they treat the receptionist when they come and pick you up for your interview—even what snacks they have in the break rooms and what amenities are available in the bathrooms. All these little signs are a tell of the culture of the organization you may be committing to spend your days with.