Top 5 Tips for Finding a Job You'll Love

Looking for a job can be a bit like dating. It can be easy to go online and find a partner for a first date, but what happens after that is what matters most. Will the first date (or first interview) turn into a long-term relationship? Or will it be a bust?

The job search can be hard work. It’s not just about finding a job – any job. It’s about finding the right job, a job that is a good fit for you now and in the future, either as a stepping stone to your career or as an opportunity you’ll be comfortable with long-term. If it’s the wrong job, you’ll have to start the job search all over again if the position isn’t a good fit. Aside from being stressed, you need to avoid being seen as a job hopper when writing your resume.

Since job hunting is time-consuming and stressful, and it can be even more difficult if a job doesn’t work out and you end up quitting or getting fired, it’s best to spend your time getting everything right once you start your job search.

Here are five tips to help you find a job you’ll love:

find a job that’s right for you
Before you start your job search, take time to make sure you’re looking for the right job. If you’re not sure what you want to do, take a career quiz or two to get some ideas. If necessary, take advantage of career coaching or counseling to get you on the right track. Use job search engines to look for jobs that match your skills, experience and interests.
get informed.
Don’t just apply for the job. Take it a step further. Use your connections on LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter and other networking sites to find out who you know at the company. Ask them for insights and information about the company in general and about the job. Your contacts may also be able to give you a recommendation for the job. Check out the company’s LinkedIn page and social media profiles to gather information.

interviews work both ways.
It is just as valuable for you to interview with the company as it is for the company to interview you. Be prepared to answer interview questions and have a list of your own interview questions ready. If you’re not 100% sure about a job offer and haven’t met the team you’ll be working with, ask if you can meet your future boss and colleagues. It’s also perfectly fine to ask for time to think about a job offer if you need to reconsider.
find out about the company culture.
The job may sound great, but do you want to work for the company? Does the company culture suit you at this stage of your career? Is it too formal – or too casual? How is the organization structured? Are there opportunities for advancement there? Spend some time reading what employees are saying about the company on “Glassdoor.com.” If you’re a college graduate, ask your career office if there’s an alumni network you can connect with. Turn to your LinkedIn connections with follow-up questions.
Make sure the job is a good fit for you.
In addition to making sure you want to work for the company, carefully review the job listing. Do you really want this job? Will you enjoy doing it? Will it advance your career? Does it offer you the flexibility or work-life balance you need? Does the salary match your expectations? If not, is negotiating a higher salary an option? Are the benefits adequate for your needs? What about the work schedule, hours, and travel if needed? If there’s anything about the job or salary package that makes you think twice, it’s time to act before accepting the offer.

Of course, not all jobs work out perfectly, even if you do everything right. However, you’ll have a better chance of finding the right job if you’re diligent about every step of the job search and take the time to do your due diligence before saying “yes” to the hiring manager.

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