To answer the OP, in my company it is SOP to execute a 'standard' GA below 1,000' (TOGA and minimum altitude loss). Above that we have discretion.
I normally brief some of the alternatives available but I think the main considerations, as pointed out by other posters, are:
Where am I? (Config, altitude, speed, lateral path) and
Where do I want to be? (As above)
Choose what you think to be the best method to get from A to B. On many occasions, it's not so much a GA as a "not landing", so you've got a little time to discuss/rehearse your actions before taking them.
Be aware of how the AP & AT, if used, will react to various commands, alt. capture, etc. and how you will avoid or mitigate undesirable effects.
You may be above or below AA, the flaps will be in one of several possible positions, the gear may be up or down and you may be above or below the GA altitude... A little thought goes a long way!