Why Job Searching is Like Dating

Wouldn’t job searching be so much easier if you could just swipe right on your dream job?

Though it seems unlikely that dating and job-seeking are alike, the two actually have a lot in common. Finding “the one”– whether it’s your soulmate or your dream job – relies on being well-intentioned, open-minded, and a bit of compatibility.

Here are five dating rules to sharpen your job search strategy.

Chemistry matters

Even when everything looks good on paper, sometimes the relationship just doesn’t click. That’s when chemistry comes into play.

In order to find chemistry with a potential employer, you must first ask yourself some meaningful questions to understand your personality, values, and career goals. Once you understand what drives you, you can confidently decide whether a company’s mission, culture, and environment align with your values.

Get help from friends

Whether you’re looking for love or looking for work, who you know and more importantly who they know makes all the difference.

Over 70% of employees got their current job through networking – reason enough for you to get 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 thing happens when jobseekers only go after jobs with attractive companies without paying much attention to the position itself. As a result, they end up in roles that aren’t right for them. A potential employer’s image matters, but it shouldn’t be the only reason you hit “apply.” Focus on the job itself to find a role that truly works for you.

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 you shouldn’t jump at the first job offer you receive without exploring your options.

“Date around” the job market. Compare roles, cultures, duties, managers, and workplace vibes.  You’ll spend roughly 40 hours a week, year-round in whatever position you choose, so allow yourself enough time to find the right fit.

Related: Multiple Job Offers? How to Decide What’s Best for You.

Be desirable, not desperate

Do you really want to be in a relationship with someone who is willing to settle for anyone? Desperation is not attractive. An employer is not hiring you as a favor and your answer to the question “why should we hire you?” shouldn’t be “because I really need to pay my bills!”

Employers want candidates with self-worth and those who will add value to their company. Show the employer what they gain by adding you to their team and what they risk losing if they don’t.

Like dating, every job search comes with its fair share of ups and downs. You might get your heart broken, lose a great job lead, or get turned down by an employer.

But job searching doesn’t have to mean a trip to Heartbreak Hotel.

At ALTRES Staffing, one interview with us gives you access to hundreds of jobs not advertised anywhere else. Our goal isn’t just to find you work but help you find meaningful work that aligns with your skills, experience, and long-term goals.