Have you ever taken a role you weren’t thrilled with rather than continuing your job search?

Our reader poll today asks:  Have you ever taken a role you weren’t thrilled with rather than continuing your job search?

• Yes. I just needed a job immediately: 45%
• Yes. I was getting sick of the job search process: 20%
• No. I’ve only taken roles I really wanted: 35%

Sometimes we have to settle. Job searches are high stress, high pressure situations. Sometimes the need for income far outweighs the desire for a perfect role. While those situations will happen, look for opportunities to create your own opportunities. Constantly invest in building and strengthening your network. When you’re employed in a role you don’t like, see how you can change your role and make it something you love. Look for other internal postings at your company where there’s a better fit for you. Continue networking and job searching constantly. By doing so, you’ll keep your network fresh so when you do need that next role, your search process can be faster, you won’t settle because you’re sick of the process, and your chances of finding a job you love are much improved.

Do you agree with these poll results? Let us know in the comments below!

– Mike Figliuolo at thoughtLEADERS, LLC

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These results were originally a SmartPulse poll in SmartBrief on Leadership which tracks feedback from more than 240,000 business leaders. Get smarter on leadership and sign up for the SmartBrief on Leadership e-newsletter.