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Why You Should Always Keep an Eye Out for the Perfect Job

job-seeking-complacencyBy Adrienne Erin
Contributor, Online Career Tips

You’re content with your job. You’re happy where you are. You’re confident in your job security. You have the perfect job and don’t need to job search.

Right?

Think again. Contrary to popular belief, you can and should continue to search for the perfect job, regardless of whether or not you currently need or want to change employment. It may seem illogical or counter-intuitive, but continually searching is crucial to your professional success, even if you never pursue any of your leads.

Still not convinced? Let’s take a look at the benefits of maintaining an ongoing job search.

Helps Prepare for the Unexpected

No one wants to think about layoffs. But while we’d like to think it could never happen to us, the fact remains it can happen at any time, even to the best of employees.

It may not seem like it, but there are ways to stay prepared for a layoff. Maintaining a passive (or active) job search is one of them.

An ongoing job search helps keep you prepared in several ways. Searching keeps you up to date on what employers are looking for: skills, knowledge, experience, attitude, etc. It also helps you maintain awareness of the job market. Should you suddenly need to apply for a new job, you’re already familiar with the opportunities currently available; you’re not starting your search from square one on your first day of unemployment.

A perpetual job search is also a great reminder and motivator to keep your resume up-to-date. What’s more, even if you never face a sudden layoff or your position getting outsourced, you’re still equipped for the day you decide you’re ready for a change.

Prevents Complacency

There is a difference between feeling satisfied in your career and becoming complacent in your career.

Have the comforts of your current job made you complacent? Have you met all your career goals, or have you forgotten or ignored your goals due to comfort or job security? Are you still growing and being challenged, or are you a big fish in a shrinking pond?

Constantly searching for the perfect job can help prevent complacency by keeping you aware of what else is out there. A job search can yield positions that offer a greater potential for growth, meet more of your professional goals, and provide new challenges.

Maintains a Personal Challenge

As stated above, there is a difference between satisfaction and complacency. However, even if your current job meets all your career goals and is genuinely your dream job — the last job you’ll ever need or want — you still need to challenge yourself.

Continuing to search can help you identify new career goals or areas for personal or professional growth. Job descriptions can highlight new skills you can pursue and hone at your current job or in your spare time. Lifelong learning is a pursuit that carries both personal and professional benefits. A continual job search will encourage and challenge you to become a lifelong learner.

Regardless of whether you need or want a new position, keeping your eye out for the perfect job not only prepares you for the day you do need a new career, it also keeps you on your toes. In need of a professional challenge? Maybe it’s time to implement a job search.

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