Is there such a thing as the PERFECT job?
Can you find it?
The thing is, there really is no such thing… there is always something missing, but we tend to keep looking for it, and missing out on a fantastic job opportunity or the position you already hold. Sound familiar? Is that grass greener over there???
Five main conditions create the perfect job, but here is the secret, you cannot get them all. If you can have four met, you are lucky. Three preferences are about average.
Be comfortable with giving one (or two) condition up!
The order of importance changes through your lifespan, and if you are only receiving two selections, it might be time to make a move.
1. Job satisfaction
You do not have to love your job, or at least not love it all the time, but this one is about having a sense of satisfaction with what you do.
2. Work-Life Balance
Whatever that means to you; if you would rather work weekends to be home during the week, then do it. Need to have weekend, nights and holidays off, find a job that allows that (yes, they are out there).
3. Benefits
Need that paid two weeks off? Healthcare coverage? 401K? Education reimbursement?
4. Money
This one is tricky. Be realistic. Expect a rate that is commensurable with your education, experience, and on par with other individuals in your area.
5. Job security
Are you willing to work on contract and not knowing for sure if in three months you will have another assignment lined up? Do you want to work PRN (as needed) at multiple locations so that you work when you want every week, but some weeks you might not be needed? Are you comfortable knowing that if there is downsizing, restructuring, or conflict, the PRN person may be the first to be cut? Or do you need a steady income, a place to call “home” with advancement opportunities?