What is a Stretch Job and Should You Consider It?

When job searching, a lot of people will try to find a job that they’re most qualified for because it’s within their comfort zone. It’s easier to land a job this way because you’re a low risk for employers. Less time and resources are put forth by the employer if you already have most of the knowledge you need to start working. But, it’s also easy to get bored of a job or position if it never challenges you. Now, you find yourself wanting more and you’re on the hunt again to find a job that’s more inspiring. This job is called a stretch job.

A stretch job is a position that takes you out of your comfort zone, a job that you’re not entirely qualified for, but that doesn’t mean you can’t do it. It will often challenge you and keep you fulfilled longer than other jobs because it takes you time to learn or familiarize yourself with the processes.

People will often shrug off a stretch position because they feel like they’ll be wasting their time because a hiring manager will never select them. And while some of this is true, hiring managers don’t always find candidates who check off every requirement listed in the job posting. If they do, that’s surprising, because job postings are typically full of a wish list items that the hiring manager would like to have but doesn’t necessarily need and it’s likely that there isn’t one person who can fulfill all of those requests.

So, why should you go for a stretch job?

1. Have you changed jobs and don’t feel challenged?
2. Are you bored at your current job?
3. Do you dread coming into work every day because it’s always going to be the same thing?

If you see yourself answering “yes” to any of these questions, then a stretch job is probably a good idea for you. Not only will it help you to broaden your skills but it will motivate you and keep you satisfied because it’s something you’ll really enjoy. Another perk that a stretch job offers is confidence that you can take on a challenge and succeed. And that confidence can lead to you continuing to move up that corporate ladder.

If you have a job currently, then you’re taking a very low risk to look for a stretch job while still working. The only thing on the line is a bit of your time.

Now to be perfectly clear, landing a stretch job will take some effort. To get started you will need spend a little extra time on your resume so that even though you might not meet every job qualification, you’ll still be considered for the position.

If you find yourself hesitating to take that step towards that stretch job or position you really want because you’re under-qualified—that’s okay. Take some time to motivate yourself and learn some of those skills that will help you be more qualified for the position in the future. This way you can feel more confident as you put your best foot forward.

This article was written Madison Green.

Madison Green is a pharmacy technician by day and a fantasy/horror/copy writer by night. When she’s not working or writing she’s traveling and playing adventure games, tabletop games, and video games.