When applying for a new job, one of the biggest questions candidates ask themselves is: Am I actually a good fit for this role? While the job description might list the required qualifications and responsibilities, it can still be difficult to know how your background stacks up.

The good news? There’s a simple yet powerful method you can use to assess your fit — and it only takes a few minutes of online research. Here’s how you can leverage LinkedIn and other tools to gain insight and improve your chances of landing the right role.

Use LinkedIn to Research Similar Roles

One of the easiest ways to assess whether you’re a strong match for a position is by researching professionals currently or previously in that same role — especially within the company you’re applying to. LinkedIn makes this process fast and informative.

Start by searching the job title along with the company name. Look at the profiles of individuals who currently hold or have previously held the position. Pay close attention to their:

• Education background

• Years of experience

• Previous job titles

• Certifications and skills

• Career progression

If your credentials align closely with theirs, there’s a good chance you could be a strong fit.

Pro Tip: Look at Former Employees, Too

Here’s an advanced tip that many candidates overlook — look at professionals who recently left the role. If someone held the job for three, four, or even five years, that’s a strong indication they were successful and met (or exceeded) expectations.

Why is this valuable? Because if your experience, skillset, and educational background look similar to theirs, it’s likely you could thrive in the same position. This kind of research can give you confidence and clarity before hitting “submit” on your application.

Not sure how to find this information? Try:

• Filtering LinkedIn searches to show former employees

• Using the “People Also Viewed” feature on LinkedIn profiles

• Exploring the company’s team page if publicly available

Don’t Get Discouraged by a Perfect Match Requirement

It’s worth noting that you don’t have to match 100% of the listed qualifications to apply. Companies often list their “ideal candidate,” but many are willing to train the right person — especially if you demonstrate potential, enthusiasm, and a willingness to learn.

That said, if your background is vastly different from those who have held the role successfully, it may be a signal to either upskill or focus your search elsewhere.

Go Beyond the Resume — Show You’re a Fit

Once you’ve done your research, use that knowledge to your advantage:

• Tailor your resume to highlight overlapping skills and experiences

• Customize your cover letter to reflect an understanding of the role’s demands

• Prepare for the interview by referencing relevant similarities between your experience and successful employees’

Doing this shows that you’re not only qualified but also proactive and insightful — traits every employer values.

Work with a Top Staffing Agency in Houston

If you want expert guidance on matching your skills to the right roles, Murray Resources is here to help. Our recruiters take the time to understand your background and connect you with job opportunities that align with your goals. Ready to take the next step in your career? Check out our current job openings or contact us today to get started.