Ken laid it out really well. I've only ever been an employee, have yet to start up on my own - its in the works though. However even having only been an employee I understand greatly the owner and managerial side very well, I've hired and fired. If I were to ever apply at another company the things I would look for are this. I want a company that is interested in helping me achieve my personal goals as much as I am interested in achieving the goals for the business. I really feel there has to be an equal give and take, and compromise. When there is a happy balance between personal and professional life the opportunitys for me to succeed in both sides in life are exponential. I strongly believe its very important to share all goals and put people in positions and give them the tools to be able to reach and exceed those goals. If an employer can understand this for me, I will do the absolute best I can because I know in order for my goals to be met the business goals have to be met FIRST and that is what my motivation is. I've always put a business first, and not that I feel I'm entitled to anything, but in return I feel a great employee should be taking care of - within reason, should their work warrant it.
I have a family I have to provide for, and so does everyone else. The unemployment line is long and there are plenty of people out there who will work hard, and keep doing so if they're given the opportunity.
