Have you ever noticed how a job search can often feel like you’re diving back into the dating world? Of course, finding a life partner is a heavier commitment but undeniably there are similarities to both.
Think about it. Both have to deal with ghosting. Both have to deal with getting to know one another on a date or interview. And these days, you even find both through searching online.
When it comes down to it, you’re ultimately seeking happiness in both a relationship and your career.
And when you’re searching for the latter, there’s no doubt that it can be quite daunting. Once you find a role that completely aligns with your professional goals, though, you will likely want to fall head-over-heels for it! Whether you’re fresh out of school looking for your first accounting role, or a seasoned professional looking to advance into a leadership position, everyone deserves to love their job.
Plus, with unemployment at an all-time low, qualified accounting, finance and IT professionals are in high demand. Therefore, job seekers, should be mindful of this need and use it to your advantage. Are you being offered a competitive compensation? Do you align with their company culture? How do the benefits level up to other companies’?
There are many different factors to consider when finding a new position. However, overall, it’s best to go with the job that will bring you happiness and a sense of accomplishment – one that you can fall in LOVE with.
Take a look at my 4 Ways to Fall in LOVE with a New Position below!
1. Communicate Your Goals
During an interview, a hiring manager will most likely ask you questions that relate to your professional goals – long-term and short-term. Where do you see yourself in six months from now… how about five years? Don’t be afraid to share your goals with the hiring manager. This will only help you become more familiar with the potential opportunity and give you clarity on if it aligns with your future. You may not want to completely sound off, but be honest and open with where you’re headed professionally and that will only benefit you in your search.
2. Ask the Right Questions
During an interview, the hiring manager may ask the question, “Do you have any questions for me?” Everyone knows that it’s imperative to have a few questions prepared for this. Some job seekers tend to ask vague questions that they believe the hiring manager wants to hear. Unfortunately, this often serves no purpose and there is no value in this approach for you – or the hiring manager. Take this time to ask the questions that are weighing on you. This is a chance to learn the necessary facts that may make or break your decision on this role. If you don’t have many questions to ask, rather than thinking of quick ones on the spot, dive deeper into a topic that was talked about previously. How long is the month-end close? Who oversees the accounting team? It never hurts to hone in on a specific topic – even if it was already mentioned.
3. Meet the Team
The best way to learn the day-to-day flow of the business is to ask to communicate with the members of the team. These individuals can give you real insight to the culture of the company and the overall vibe of the office. Can you see yourself interacting and collaborating with this team on a daily basis? Do you see potential to LOVE this opportunity and this company?
While this introduction will benefit you in many different ways, it’s also time for the team to learn about you! Put your best foot forward and take advantage of this first impression, just as you did in the initial interview. Be prepared to answer some questions and be yourself!
4. Weigh the Pros & Cons
If we’re being honest here… no job opportunity is flawless. Maybe there is a minor responsibility that you don’t love, or maybe the software they use is far below user-friendly. Regardless of the cons, you must weigh them with the positive attributes of the role and consider what matters most to you. Will these flaws get in the way of your overall happiness towards the job?
If your No. 1 goal in a new opportunity is having flexible work hours, and your potential new role doesn’t allow anyone to work remotely, it’s clear that you can’t fall for this role. This may sound silly, but if you’re struggling with balancing an opportunity, I encourage you to literally write out the pros and cons on a piece of paper and analyze those that motivate you and those that deter you. Chances are your answer will come to you quicker than you realize.
Can you think of any other ways to fall in love with a new position? Comment here!