Why Job Searching is Like Dating

Why Job Searching is Like Dating

Did you know that online dating giant eHarmony has its own job matching service or that there’s a job hunting app similar to Tinder? Though it seems unlikely that dating has anything to do with job seeking, the two actually have quite a bit in common. Finding “the one” – whether it’s your soulmate or dream job – often comes down to being good intentioned, open-minded, and compatible. Here are five rules of dating that you can also apply to your job search.

Chemistry matters

Even when everything looks good on paper, sometimes the relationship just doesn’t click. That’s when chemistry comes in to play. In order to find chemistry with a potential employer, you must first have a good grasp on your personality, values, and career goals. Only then can you determine if the company’s mission, culture, and environment align with your own.

Friends of friends

Regardless of whether you’re looking for love or looking for work – who you know and more importantly who they know can make all the difference. In fact, over 80 percent of jobs are filled via networking – reason enough for you to get yourself out there and get the coconut wireless going. Talk to your friends, family, neighbors, or even the lady you buy your coffee from every morning and let them know you’re looking for work.

Look beyond looks

Turns out tall, dark, and handsome aren’t the only things to look for in a partner. After all, relationships based on looks alone often lack the deep connection that most people seek. The same can be said for jobseekers who only go after jobs with attractive companies without paying much attention to the position itself. As a result, they end up taking on, and in some cases get stuck in, roles that aren’t right for them. Brand recognition is important when validating a potential employer, but it shouldn’t be the only factor you consider when pursuing job opportunities.

Don’t rush in

As the popular Elvis Presley song reminds us, “only fools rush in.” You probably shouldn’t commit to a relationship after just the first date and likewise shouldn’t jump at the first job offer you receive. “Date around” the job market to see what other opportunities are out there before you accept a position. You’ll probably be spending 40 hours a week, 52 weeks a year in this role, so you want to make sure that the duties, manager, coworkers, and workplace culture are right for you.

Be desirable, not desperate

Do you really want to be in a relationship with someone who is willing to settle for anyone? Simply put, desperation is not attractive. An employer is not hiring you as a favor. Employers want candidates with self-worth and those who will add value to their company. In other words, you need to show an employer that they are losing out by not having you as part of their team.

Like dating, your job search will have its fair share of ups and downs. You might get your heart broken. You might lose a great job lead. You might get turned down by an employer. However, the important thing to remember is that all good things take time. Putting effort, determination, and thought into the process will make landing the right job all the more worth it and rewarding in the end.


Posted on January 15, 2017



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