One Size Does Not Fit All

     One Size Doesn't Fit All is the new approach for the US Department of Agriculture's interactive website for healthy diets.  You can create a personalized approach to what you eat and what you do. (www.mypyramid.gov)

     Have you ever accepted a job that on paper was a perfect match for your skill set and experience but later realized that it was not a good fit?  How could this happen?  What did you miss in the interviews?

     You may have focused on what the job needed from you and missed clarifying what you needed from the job.  You persuaded the interviewer or interviewers that you could solve problems, be a team player, adapt well to change, etc.

     Did you consider:

     What are my values?               How can I honor them in this position?

     How do I define success?        Are there opportunities that fit this definition?

     Professional growth?               What resources and support are available?

     Impact on relationships?         Is their flexibility to meet individual needs?

     Source of energy?                    Will the environment and work give or take energy?

     Sometimes we tell ourselves that we do not have the luxury of considering what "makes our heart sing" at work.  We have bills to pay and family obligations.  Sometimes we have to take that "in the meantime" job before we find the job that brings us fulfillment and satisfaction.

     Regardless of the degree of freedom we have when considering a new position, we can weigh our individual needs with the needs of the employer and create a personalized approach to facilitate our decision.  One style does not fit all.