What the Cheesecake Factory Can Teach You About a Smart Job Search

Let’s talk about how a good job search should work.

Think of it like ordering off the menu at The Cheesecake Factory. Stay with me.

That menu is massive, right? There’s something for everyone. Tons of options look great, and it can feel overwhelming. But would you just order everything that sounds good? Of course not. You know what you like, what you’re in the mood for, and what fits your budget—so you make your choice accordingly.

Now, using that same analogy, a job board is like that big ol’ menu of job listings. So many look appealing. You're craving a change. You’re a quick learner. So why not just apply to everything that looks interesting and see what sticks?

Because that’s not how you get hired.

Instead, just like at the restaurant, you should “order” based on what fits you—what you’re qualified for, what aligns with your goals, and what truly interests you.

Here’s the reality: Companies usually have a clear idea of what they’re looking for when they post a job. That’s why job descriptions exist. When reviewing applications, hiring managers are looking for candidates who meet most—or at least the most important—requirements.

Unless the posting specifically invites applicants who are new to the field or open to learning, they’re not going to be swayed by “I’m a quick learner” or “I could do this if given a chance.”

Hiring is risky. Employers want to reduce that risk, not increase it.

So, when you apply for a job you're not qualified for, chances are… you’re not getting a second look. Remember that post I wrote about the 10-Second Scan? You won’t even make it past that point.

Here's a smarter approach:

Apply to fewer jobs—but make sure they’re the right jobs.

And no, that doesn’t mean you have to check every single box in the job description. But you should meet most of the core requirements—especially the ones listed at the top.

Try this step-by-step plan:

• Clarify your goals:

  Ask yourself, what are you really looking for? Do you want to be a doer or a leader? Work in a large corporation or a small nonprofit? Are you seeking career growth, or do you prefer stability without the pressure of climbing the ladder?

  
  

• Take inventory of your strengths:

  What skills, experiences, and knowledge do you bring to the table? What kinds of roles would you genuinely thrive in based on your background?

  
  

• Study job postings:

  Look at a few roles you're interested in. What are the common requirements? How many of them do you meet? Are those strengths visible on your resume? If not, could you take a course or certification to bridge that gap?

  
  

• Build a strong resume:

  Your resume should be accurate, easy to scan, and tailored to highlight how you're a strong fit for the positions you’re targeting.

  
  

Once you’ve done all that—then it’s time to start applying.

You’ll have a much better shot if you’re thoughtful about it, rather than spraying your resume across the internet like confetti.

Curate your job search.

Be intentional.

And apply with purpose—just like you’d order your favorite cheesecake.

Need help finding what jobs you should apply to? I can help! Reach out and schedule a coaching session.