Landing Your Dream Job vs. Landing The Right Job

At any given moment there is someone thinking about their job or a future job they would like to have. These dreams keep us motivated to strive for something greater than what we currently have. Although there are some of us who are content with where we are at, wanting something new is not uncommon.

What to Think About

Searching for a new job has become easier than ever before. There is no need to search through the classified ads for job opportunities. A quick Google search of name or similar name of a job you would like will yield results for you to review. Unfortunately, not all job names are created equally. It will be important to review the job descriptions carefully before taking the time to apply. It is also important to understand what it is YOU are looking for in a job. There is a strong chance what you are ACTUALLY looking for in a new career is not referred to as what you think it is. For example, an administrator has different job functions and different tiers of authority depending on the field or profession.

Reviewing Your Options

After you have found the job criteria and description you want, it is time to start applying. Remember, you will need to tailor your resume to help fit the job you are applying to. Once you have applied and made it through the interviews, you may be stuck with a dilemma. You may have 2-3 jobs for which you have offers to work at. Unfortunately, you will only be able to choose one. The tough part of this process is the final decision, as you may worry about making the wrong one. You need to make a pros and cons list of the different jobs. Essentially you are letting the jobs fight to win your approval. Yes, there will be biased opinions from the lists, but this is okay. Having these biased allows your mind to work through what it really wants.

Next, I would highly recommend you consider some things. First, consider what you want to be doing in 1-2 years (without thinking about the jobs you could work at). Second, where would you like to be in 1-5 years? Third, how do you want your life to look like in 3-5 years? These questions are subjective to the person asking them. Once you have your answers, how are you going to get there? Our minds have the ability to make these connections from current criteria available. It may not be the exact way or the accurate way of reaching your goals, but it will allow you to gain some perspective of which job to choose.

Pay and Title Mean Very Little

Sure, having the nice title and the money to support it is a great thing to have. However, it only means something to the next employer or if you are trying to impress someone else. Thus, if you are seeking a title, you are likely planning on moving from job to job in the future. Otherwise, your title is practically meaningless. Find a job for which you are proud of and you can enjoy. Find a job that will allow you to reach those goals you have set out for yourself in the future. Do not chase these shell titles which will ultimately leave you empty in your life and career. Be passionate about what you do with your life. You will ultimately work for MOST of your life, why wouldn’t you do something you enjoy?

Do Not Worry About Making the Wrong Decision

You can stress about making the right decision and working at the right job all you want. It will not change the outcome. If you choose A over B, do not stress about not choosing B. There will always be other options for you out there in this crazy economy. If you get tired of A, check B or C or D. Life is too short to worry and stress about those decisions which have already been made. Lastly, remember we are all in this race together. Be sure to pass along wisdom to those who are just getting started in this. It can be overwhelming as times, which can lead to some of them giving up far too soon.