Not all opportunities are created equal. It is vital that you find a position that is a good fit with your skills and goals.  At any given time, there are numerous academic and private practice positions available across the country.
So while finding possibilities is not difficult, narrowing them down to the best career match for you can be an overwhelming task. The difficulty of this undertaking is compounded by competition. While the number of practice possibilities is great, so is the number of physicians searching for new positions.  You are just one resource in a very large pool of candidates ranging from residents and fellows looking for their first practice to seasoned physicians looking for a change. As you define the professional, financial, family, social, recreational, and geographic characteristics associated with your ideal position, you begin to focus your search on positions that may be a good fit for you.  For instance, if you identify four or five cities or areas where you would like to live, you have reduced the number of opportunities you will proactively pursue.  Extensive research in your selected markets will help you further narrow your search.