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This article takes up where we left off in the previous article as we explore more of the similarities between dating and job hunting. Hopefully these observations will help you to remember that rejection isn’t always bad and that you should be applying the same scrutiny to potential employers that they apply to you.

Be yourself or you may not get what you want.

Remember how you mom always told you to “Be yourself and if others don’t like you it’s their loss”? Well those words are just as true in dating as they are when you are searching for a job. When dating, you shouldn’t change your behavior to suit someone else or you may wind up dating someone you don’t really like very much. We all know people who are frightened to be alone and who will modify their personalities to make someone else happy just so they do not have to be without a significant other.

The job search is no different. You may want a new job but don’t settle for just any job. Find a company that is a good fit for your skills, personality, values, and future growth. Key to getting a job is research. Find out about the company, the people, the job, and all you can about the kind of person they are looking for. That information can help you to do a better job of presenting yourself in an interview. However, don’t let the information change the fundamentals of “you” when you interview. In other words, be true to yourself or you may wind up getting a job that you don’t really want.

If your research on a potential employer illuminates information that seems undesirable, do not continue to pursue the opportunity.

Just because a firm is reputable, prestigious, or glamorous doesn’t mean you will be happy as an employee. I know a woman who interviewed at a prestigious consulting firm. Every time she went back for another round of interviews she met more people at the firm but she never felt she connected with them. The firm, however, loved her! The partners were enthusiastic about her and when they finally made an offer it was just too much money to turn down. But, even as she started the job she didn’t really like the people she was working with. Worse yet, she didn’t share their corporate values. She was a creative type and this firm placed the greatest value on its processes rather than innovative thought. Not surprisingly she left the firm a year later because she disliked the work environment and didn’t feel that the firm valued her contributions.

Don’t get caught up in flattery. Just because they like you doesn’t mean you have to take the job. A prestigious firm that doesn’t share your values, your views on work-life balance, or your individual contribution may not be the right choice for you. One way to find out more about the firm is to peruse the company website, brochures, and annual report. Another way to find out about the firm is to ask the recruiter or human resources representative about turnover rates, average annual salary increases, what percentage of senior management was promoted internally, and how they attract experienced employees. When you gather enough information about a firm you will be able to piece together a clear picture of the firm’s financial situation and its corporate culture. Then you can decide if the firm is right for you.

The bottom line is that you have to be true to yourself or you could wind up with a job that isn’t fulfilling. You may be able to “stick it out” at a job you don’t enjoy for the money, the prestige, or any number of other reasons. But, if you aren’t truly happy with your job you will find yourself looking for another job before you know it. Why not try to find the best job for you with an employer who truly values your unique qualities? The next time you interview for a job remember that you are analyzing them as much as they are interviewing you!

This article was written by Liz Handlin, CEO, Ultimate Resumes. Get more information and useful resources at Ultimate-Resumes.com.