Is it really that important for me to get so formally structured in my search for a position?

Yes, by attacking this critical task with a proven methodology you’ll greatly increase the likelihood of finding a position that will meet your professional, financial, family, social, recreational, and geographic needs.

In short, the purpose is to work proactively to find the position that is right for you. There are four main elements of an effective search. The first element is a career assessment.  A career assessment is written documentation of the position you want based on an examination of the goals you want to achieve.  It describes the professional, financial, family, social, recreational, and geographic characteristics associated with your ideal position.  Having a strategic approach to your job search can make the task much more focused and yield a position that truly matches your goals.