Which jobs should you apply to? A 4-question checklist
When every application takes half an hour, the decision makes itself: you only apply where you're certain. When an application takes one swipe, you need a better filter, or you'll end up interviewing for roles you never wanted.
Here's a quick checklist to decide on each job in a few seconds.
1. Would you accept this job if they offered it tomorrow?
This is the question that matters most. Not "could I get it", but "would I say yes". If the honest answer is no because of the location, the pay or the kind of work, skip it. You'll save yourself an interview you'd turn down anyway.
2. Is the level right, give or take one step?
Roles one step above your current level are often worth applying to: plenty of people get hired into a stretch role. Roles two or three levels away usually aren't. Iris starts your feed around your own level and widens it gradually, so most of what you see is already in range.
3. Do you meet the core requirements?
Job descriptions are wish lists, and you rarely need every bullet point. A good rule of thumb: if you clearly meet the core skills (the ones mentioned first, or more than once), apply. Don't rule yourself out over a "nice to have".
4. How strong is your fit?
In Iris, tap Check FIT Score on any card to see how well the role matches your profile. Treat it as a hint, not a verdict. A high match on a job you're lukewarm about is still a pass; a medium match at a company you'd love to work for can be a yes.
Habits that make job searching easier
- Search in short sessions. Ten focused minutes beats an hour of tired, automatic decisions.
- Save the maybes. In Iris, swipe up to save a job, then come back to it with fresh eyes.
- Keep your resume current. Every application is only as good as the resume behind it; here's how to make it ATS-friendly.
- Reply to recruiters quickly. Recruiter messages appear against the right application in Iris, so answering takes seconds.
The goal isn't to apply to everything. It's to make sure every application is for a job you'd be glad to get. For why that matters, read why the job search feels broken.
Frequently asked questions
Should I apply if I don't meet all the requirements?
Usually yes, if you meet the core requirements. Most job descriptions list more than the hiring team strictly needs.
Is it worth applying for a job above my level?
One level above yours is often worth it. Jobs several levels above are rarely a good use of an application.
How many jobs should I apply to?
There's no magic number. Apply to every role that passes the checklist above; when applying takes one swipe, that's easy to keep up with.
