Finding a Satisfying Career: How to Choose Between Two Jobs
There are great job opportunities to be found almost everywhere, especially in today’s job market. When you’re at a career crossroads, it can be difficult to choose the most beneficial option for your future career. Though there is no one-size-fits-all answer, the following are some guidelines to help you make an informed decision about which job best fits your lifestyle and career aspirations.
Do Your Research
Before committing to a job, do your due diligence and research. Make sure the job requirements, pay, location and duties align with what you’re looking for in a job.
Research the job responsibilities, the company culture and the working environment. Take the time to look at website reviews and ratings, as well as recommendations from peers or previous employees. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and get a full understanding of what the job entails.
Also, it’s a good idea to check into the company’s financial health. Find out their annual revenue, their stock performance, or any potential acquisitions or cuts that could affect your job outlook.
Consider Your Motivations
Take time to evaluate your job options and what motivates you. Are you drawn to one job because of the higher paycheck or because it’s more prestigious? You may also be drawn to certain positions because of the potential career development opportunities or the potential to work in a creative environment.
Identify the qualities that make each job unique and decide if either is better suited for your needs. List out the pros and cons for each position and create a pros and cons sheet which shows the features of each job side-by-side.
Think Long-Term
Think about how each job could potentially help you reach objectives you’ve set for yourself. Consider how the job will help you meet financial goals and how it will help you develop your current skills or gain new ones.
You may want to look for job advancement opportunities or if there is potential for networking and building relationships with professionals in the field. When evaluating jobs, ask yourself if you will be able to make use of the skills and potential that you bring to the table.
Be Flexible
A job offer may not always deliver the exact role or salary you initially set out looking for. It is important to be flexible when evaluating two different job opportunities; this means having an open mind to new concepts and initiatives that your potential employer may suggest.
For example, you may have set out looking for a particular job title, but if your skillset aligns better with a different role the company needs to fill, you should be open to reconsidering the offer. At the same time, if you are offered an entry level or lower-level than expected, consider the opportunity and ask yourself if that job could be a stepping stone to a higher-level role.
Create a Plan
Consider both job offers, evaluate each carefully, then create an action plan to help you make the best career decision. Your action plan should include goals and strategies to execute both roles, as well as any other potential job opportunities that might arise in the near future. You should also make sure to budget your time and money effectively to help you align the best career option for yourself.
Take The Next Step
With careful research and mindful evaluation, you can make the best decision about which of two job options best suits you. While it can be a difficult decision, it doesn’t have to be complicated. Taking the time to assess your motivations, consider each job’s unique offer and create an action plan to make it all happen, can help you find the most satisfying career for you.
