Am I compatible with this job?

The motivation factor

In an ideal world, people love their jobs and find fulfilment in their work. That doesn't always happen in this imperfect and very much real world. Sometimes, people work for money. Sometimes, it's a fancy brand name that matters.

Be it anything, there should be at least one solid reason foryou to want to get up from bed each morning and go to work. If you cannot find something that makes the job a little worthwhile, you're probably not the right fit.

The life outside work

Even if you don't bring your assignments home, your work will still affect your life. For instance, long work hours usually mean more exhaustion and a limited social life. Remote work can mean the additional burden of maintaining your household alone.

Will the job you're considering take up too much space and cram other priorities? If yes, how much can you compromise on those priorities? Thinking about such questions is helpful to form a better picture of how a prospective job fits into your life and affects it.

The line manager

It is well established by now that a staggering number of people leave their bosses rather than their jobs. A good boss can teach you things and make even a mundane role interesting, and a bad boss can make a great workplace feel terrible.

So don't just judge the your prospective organisation, also take a look at the people you will be working for. Previous employees who have worked for the same boss can give you valuable insights. In addition, discussing your role with the line manager directly can give you an idea of how well your dynamic will work.

The role consideration

How equipped you are for a job is really a matter of whether your personality fits the role you're expected to play. If you like staying indoors, wildlife photography is not for you, but a cubicle office might be. If you cannot handle stress, you should probably not take on a role where risky decisions need to be made. Look within yourself, and fairly judge if your personality would match even a little bit with the post you have been offered.

As an adult, you have to take decisions that will affect your life in a multitude of ways, for a long time to come. Choosing the right job is one of those decisions. A job you're incompatible with can feel a lot like a bad relationship: exhausting and pointless. That is why, it's all the more important to give yourself some time and ask the questions that will help you gauge how much compatibility you and your job have. 

Tasmiah is studying Finance at IBA, DU. She likes food and makes stressful choices. Reach her at thaque440@gmail.com.