How To Find A Job That Ticks Your Boxes

Landing your dream job isn’t just about polishing your CV or acing an interview. It’s about being focused on what you want out of a role. If you’re truly after job satisfaction, you need to understand your career goals and preferences.

Yet, many of us approach job searching without taking the time to reflect. And guess what? It’s a big reason why people end up in jobs they’re itching to escape after six months.

So, how do you avoid falling into that trap? How do you land a job that feels like it’s made for you? Here’s the key: before you start scrolling through job boards, spend some time thinking about what you actually want from a role.

Let’s dive into how to do this, step by step.

1. Start With the Basics: What Do You Want?

Before you even hit ‘apply’, the first step is to get crystal clear on your goals. And no, "I just need a job" doesn’t count!

Start by asking yourself:

• What type of work excites you? Do you thrive in a fast-paced environment or prefer a steady routine?
• What’s your ideal work-life balance? Is a 9-to-5 essential, or do you need flexibility to work around family or side projects?
• Where do you want to be in 5 years? (The classic question, but it’s an important one.)
• What values matter to you in a company? Culture, ethics, sustainability – don’t overlook this!

Jot down your thoughts, even if they’re vague. You can always refine them, but having this foundation will help you filter out the roles that don’t match up.

2. Understand Your Deal Breakers

We’ve all had that moment where we’ve started a job only to realise there’s one aspect that we can’t stand. Maybe it’s the rigid hours, the chaotic management, or the lack of room to grow. Identifying your deal breakers in advance can save you from stepping into a role that just doesn’t fit.

Common deal breakers might include:

• Commute: Are you willing to travel an hour each way?
• Company size: Do you prefer the intimacy of a small team, or do you thrive in a larger corporate structure?
• Growth opportunities: Is there room for progression or training in your dream role?

Remember, the more clarity you have on what you don’t want, the easier it is to spot the roles that just aren’t for you.

3. Prioritise Your Non-Negotiables

So, you’ve figured out what you want and what you can’t stand. Next up, it’s time to list your non-negotiables. These are the things that are must-haves for you to feel fulfilled in a role.

For example:

• Remote working: Do you need to work from home, or are you open to hybrid roles?
• Salary expectations: It’s not all about the money, but if the role doesn’t meet your financial needs, it’s going to be hard to stay motivated.
• Work culture: Some people crave a collaborative, team-first environment. Others prefer independent, heads-down work.

Understanding your non-negotiables will give you more confidence to pass on roles that don’t fit and pursue those that do.

4. Research, Research, Research

Once you’re clear on your goals and preferences, it’s time to hit the job boards with intention. But don’t just click ‘apply’ on the first thing you see. Instead, research the companies you’re interested in.

• Check company reviews on platforms like Glassdoor to get an insider’s view.
• Dig into their website – What do they stand for? Do they align with your values?
• LinkedIn stalking (in the best way): Reach out to current or former employees to ask about their experience.

This detective work is crucial. It helps you weed out the companies that aren’t aligned with your values and goals, saving you time and effort down the line.

5. Tailor Your Applications

Now that you’ve done your groundwork, you can tailor your applications for the jobs that actually tick your boxes. Craft your CV and cover letter around what’s most important to you, not just the job description.

Here’s a tip: when writing your cover letter, speak directly to why you’re excited about the role and how it aligns with your goals. Employers love candidates who know what they want and how they can contribute.

6. Prepare for the Long Haul

Finally, remember that finding the perfect job might take time. But don’t rush it! It’s better to take a bit longer and land a role that fits your needs than to jump into something that doesn’t serve your goals.

Don’t be afraid to turn down an offer if it’s not right. Trust that the right job is out there, and it’s worth holding out for.



Understanding your goals and preferences is essential to finding a job that you’ll love – not just tolerate. So before you start applying, take a moment to reflect on what’s important to you, define your non-negotiables, and do your homework.

Landing your dream job is entirely possible. And with a little self-awareness and strategy, you’ll get there!