QUESTION:

An employer just called me about an entry-level job that doesn’t sound too interesting. The schedule is not what I want and the job duties sound boring. But it is a job in the industry that I want to get into, and the pay is OK. Should I take this job that I’m not excited about or wait for a better offer?

ANSWER:

When considering any job offer, first ask yourself if you will be using or gaining skills that are related to your chosen field. Hopefully, each job that you take will build up your resume and increase your skills to make you a better candidate for your next job.

In other words: taking a few less-desirable jobs can help you to get the job that you really want. Plus, you never really know if you will like a job until you are working in it for a few weeks.

If you turn down jobs or don’t apply for any jobs in your field while waiting for your “dream job” to come a long, you could be waiting a long time. Meanwhile, you could have been gaining experience – and a paycheck – at another job in your field. Plus, are you sure the employer of your dream job will be impressed enough with your skills and experience to offer you the position you want?

What do you really have to lose by taking the job in your field that you think you don’t want? It will only add to your resume. And no one expects you to stay in an entry-level job forever. Ask yourself “could I do this job for at least six months and then resume the search for my dream job?”

QUESTION:

I just had a great job interview. I just know that they will offer me the job. Does it make sense for me to stop job searching?

ANSWER:

Congratulations of a successful job interview! Even if you are certain you are a top candidate for the position, don’t throw out your resume just yet. Nothing is for sure until the company makes you formal job offer and you sign employment papers. Until then, you should keep sending out your resume and calling employers for interviews.

Even if the company wants to hire you, you don’t know how long it will be before you start work. They might have to complete their scheduled interviews, get approval from other managers and process the job through HR. All this could take weeks or even a month.

I once interviewed for a position in a different state that I thought was a guarantee, only to have the company instate a hiring freeze for three months! Can you imagine if I had moved and there was no job waiting for me?

While you are waiting for the job offer, keep interviewing. You might even find a better permanent position. In other words: Don’t put all of your eggs in one basket.