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ARTICLE: 6 Questions to Ask (before you apply):

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The fundamental concept that all Forward Motion programs emphasize is the importance of finding employment that is a good fit. This single element can save job seekers hours of time and frustration with some careful consideration. I encourage clients to ONLY apply for jobs that they believe are a good fit. That way, they are certain to land a job that will work.

Human Resource professionals are keen people-readers. When we are excited about something it comes across—both in our writing (cover letter and résumé), as well as our demeanor and verbiage. Genuine excitement is detectible and it isn’t something we can fake. This should be a distinguishing factor in your job search.

How do you know if the job is a good fit? It should be satisfying, sustainable, and meet your financial needs. In the Forward Motion Differentiation Workshop, job fit is the first topic and everything else builds from there. Here are six questions to ask before you apply for a job.

Six questions you should ask before you respond to a job posting:

  1. Overall, do I like the position and believe it is a good fit?
  2. Does the job description for this position outline activities I enjoy and can do week-in and week-out?
  3. Do the activities that I enjoy comprise 75-80% of the job?
  4. Do I have 100% of the required qualifications and 80% of the preferred qualifications?
  5. Do I have the attributes listed (e.g. strong leadership skills, or business acumen) and can I complete 80% of the activities in the job description?
  6. Is there a good balance between current competence and challenge?