You read the job description and had six interviews over three weeks. Finally you get the job offer you think you want. How do you know for sure you are making the right decision? It all comes down to fit.
Fit is an intangible; shapeless and formless. Fit is a sense that something feels right, an impression you feel in your gut.
Does it really come down to a gut feeling? Gut feelings are notoriously hard to pin down.
Let’s see if we can make this a little more tangible. Let’s consider “fit” from three different points of view:
- Can you do the job?
- Will you love the job?
- Will you get along with the team?
If you can answer “yes” to each of these questions you probably will also know you are making the right decision. Let’s unpack this a little.
Can you do the job? You’ve read the job description and talked to a number of people at the company. Can you identify the three major success factors that will make the person holding this job successful? If you cannot identify what makes this job successful, go back and ask more questions. Do you think the projects and responsibilities are within your abilities if you challenge yourself? You don’t want to be overwhelmed but you also don’t want to be bored. You want a balance of challenges that keep you interested and growing but still seem to be achievable.
Will you love the job? Can you imagine yourself working on those projects and challenges with enthusiasm and passion for hours on end without too much boredom or frustration? Are you itching to get started with a dozen ideas popping around your head? If you don’t love the job in the beginning what makes you think you will grow to love the job?
Will you get along with the team? Can you imagine going to lunch with the folks on the team? Do you think you have found a new friend? Having a few good friends at work is a great way to stay engaged and enthusiastic. I remember one job I held where I developed some strong friendships but ran aground with one peer who really disliked me. She made my life miserable. Evaluate your potential colleagues carefully to determine if you can get along.
Fit is the crucial question. When you can answer “yes” to each of these important questions, you know you have found the right job!
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