How Do You Decide if a Job is Right for You?

There are many factors to consider when weighing opportunities, and which of these are most important to you is a personal choice. While there's no perfect job, aim for one that aligns with most of your priorities.

Find out about the company culture by doing research online and through your own observation and questions at the interview. Are the company's values and mission similar to yours? Is the office environment friendly and relaxed or strict and hierarchical? Look at how much time employees spend devoted to work outside of working hours. If you're passionate about the work, overtime may be no problem for you, but if you have family or other commitments, it may not be a great fit.

Salary is a major deciding factor for many, but remember that you're committing a large percentage of your life to this job. If a high salary is a priority or a certain salary is a necessity, it may make the decision for you. However, if a slightly lower paying job is more fulfilling, it could be a better option.

Make a note of the skills you feel you're best at and analyse how they'll be used in the job opportunities you're looking at. If you do something very well and see yourself making positive contributions, the job is more likely to be fulfilling. When you're required to use skills you're less interested in or are not allowed to fully utilise your abilities, you'll be less motivated in the job.

Think about your overall career goals and how this job fits in to those. Does it provide opportunities for development? What are your chances of being promoted? Is it a growing, thriving organisation? While you may accept a position that's less than your dream job, choose one that helps you continue on the path to it.