Job Hunting? The Difference Between Regret and Your Dream Job
The pandemic inspired many people to reevaluate their work and personal lives. Many reprioritized the things that were important for them in terms of work. Perhaps it was pursuing a job they were truly passionate about or one that allowed for more flexibility. Over the last couple of years, workers have been jumping jobs at unprecedented rates. According to the According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics report, more than 50 million people quit their jobs in 2022, which beat the 2021 record of 47.8 million! Are we going to witness the same level of job changes in 2023? Even as layoffs continue to be announced by tech giants like Google, Amazon and others, there still seems to be ample opportunities for those looking to change jobs. According to The Wall Street Journal “There were 11 million unfilled jobs at the end of December, and the unemployment rate fell to 3.4% in January, a 53-year low.”
The pandemic made many of us take a good, hard look at our work and personal lives (hello, existential crises over Zoom). For some, it sparked a job change fueled by passion or the hunt for better flexibility. Others decided they simply couldn’t take another email that began with, "Per my last email…"
The stats don’t lie: People have been switching jobs at record rates. In 2022, over 50 million people quit their jobs—breaking the 2021 record of 47.8 million, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. And while layoffs by big-name companies like Google and Amazon dominate the headlines, opportunities are still out there. The Wall Street Journal reported that at the end of December, there were 11 million unfilled jobs and the unemployment rate hit a 53-year low of just 3.4% in January 2023.
“Culture is the bedrock of any organization. It will determine whether you can weather the storms and scale the heights.”
So, if you’re dreaming of greener career pastures, here are a few tips to help you land a dream job—not one you’ll regret faster than you can say "open office plan."
1) Be Intentional About Your Next Move
There’s no shame in wanting something new, but before you leap, ask yourself: Why am I making this move? Is it for more money? A better title? Flexibility? Escaping a boss who starts every sentence with "technically"? Whatever your reasons, get crystal clear on what matters most to you. Make a list of your non-negotiables—and keep it handy when weighing offers.
2) Culture Is Everything
You’ve probably heard Peter Drucker’s famous quote: “Culture eats strategy for breakfast.” And trust me, he wasn’t wrong. A company’s culture dictates the day-to-day vibe and behaviors that can make or break your experience.
But here’s the catch: Culture exists at multiple levels. A company may advertise an inclusive, innovative environment, but the department or team you join might have its own "sub-culture" that’s less ideal.
During interviews, don’t be afraid to dig into the details. Ask specific questions like:
"What do you admire most about your team’s culture?"
"If you could change one thing about the culture, what would it be?"
Ask multiple people these question as you’ll get varied perspectives, which can be a goldmine of insight.
3) Consider Leadership Style
Spoiler alert: Your manager can make or break your job satisfaction. There’s a reason for the saying, “Employees don’t leave companies; they leave managers.” If possible, meet your potential direct manager during the interview process. Ask about their leadership style and how they support their team. Do they micromanage? Are they a hands-off visionary? Be honest with yourself about what kind of leadership aligns best with your work style.
4) Remember: You’re Interviewing Them, Too
This point deserves its own spotlight. Yes, you want the job—but it’s equally important to ensure the job is a good fit for you. Ask thoughtful questions and pay close attention to the answers. Do they seem genuine? Excited? Or does their body language scream, "Please don’t ask me that again." Even on Zoom, you can pick up on subtle cues—so don’t shy away from gently probing where needed.
5) Trust Your Gut
Finally, don’t ignore that little voice in your head (or the sinking feeling in your stomach). If something feels off, dig deeper or walk away. Your dream job is out there, and it’s worth taking the time to find the right fit.
In today’s job market, opportunities abound—but so do pitfalls. The key to landing your dream job? Be intentional, ask the right questions, and don’t settle for less than what aligns with your values and goals. After all, you deserve more than just another paycheck—you deserve to thrive.
Happy job hunting—and remember, if they’re serving "culture eats strategy for breakfast," make sure it’s paired with good coffee!