Understanding your fit score:
What each number really means

Understanding your fit score:
What each number really means

Careerspan 101

Careerspan 101

Seeing a 60 fit score and thinking "that's terrible"? Hold up—you might be surprised to learn that 60 is actually a pretty solid score in our system. Let's break down what these numbers really mean so you can understand exactly where you stand.

Seeing a 60 fit score and thinking "that's terrible"? Hold up—you might be surprised to learn that 60 is actually a pretty solid score in our system. Let's break down what these numbers really mean so you can understand exactly where you stand.

What your fit score actually measures

Your fit score (10-100) predicts how likely you are to receive an offer for a specific role. Think of it as your realistic shot at getting hired, not a grade on a test. We're not measuring how "good" you are as a person or professional—we're measuring how well you match what this particular hiring team is looking for.

Your fit score (10-100) predicts how likely you are to receive an offer for a specific role. Think of it as your realistic shot at getting hired, not a grade on a test. We're not measuring how "good" you are as a person or professional—we're measuring how well you match what this particular hiring team is looking for.

The real story behind each score range

10-40: Foundation building time

10 (Critically Underqualified): Core prerequisites are missing, and most hiring teams would pass without a second look.

20 (Marginal Awareness): You meet a few basic criteria, but there are significant skill gaps that make progression extremely unlikely.

25 (Insufficient Foundation): Even if you were the only applicant, the hiring committee would struggle to justify bringing you on board.

30 (Partial Alignment): Some relevant elements are there, but you're missing multiple primary requirements.

40 (Below Baseline): Most minimum expectations are satisfied, yet the profile lacks distinction; success would hinge on a very weak applicant pool and very persuasive interviewing.

50-75: You're in the game

50 (Minimal Viability): All fundamental requirements are present, though distinguishing strengths are limited; securing the role is possible with an above-average interview performance.

60 (Adequate Match): The candidate meets role expectations and demonstrates clear competence; reasonably likely to progress against a typical field.

70 (Viable Contender): Solid qualifications with reasonable chance of success; would perform adequately in the role with good interview presentation.

75 (Good Positioning): Strong alignment is evident; with polished materials and confident interviews, the candidate has a good chance of receiving an offer.

80-100: Strong contender territory

80 (Strong Contender): Several key criteria are exceeded, and tangible achievements are evident; the hiring team would view the profile favorably.

85 (High Probability): The candidate is very well qualified; with solid presentation, has an excellent chance of receiving an offer.

90 (Exceptional Match): The profile offers significant value beyond role requirements; barring unexpected interview missteps, an offer is expected.

95 (Outstanding Candidate): Premium qualifications with multiple competitive advantages; among top candidates for any similar role.

100 (Overqualified Assurance): The role represents a step down relative to the candidate's credentials; success is virtually guaranteed, and the primary concern may be long-term retention.

Why 60 is actually good news

When you see a 60 fit score, remember: you meet role expectations and demonstrate clear competence. You're reasonably likely to progress against a typical field of candidates. This puts you in solid competitive territory.

In today's competitive job market, being an "adequate match" with clear competence puts you ahead of many applicants who are missing key qualifications or struggling with baseline requirements.

What this means for your job search

Use your fit score as a reality check, not a report card. A 50-70 range means you should apply but invest extra time in your application materials and interview prep. An 80+ score means you're in strong contention—focus on presenting yourself confidently.

Remember, even candidates with 90+ fit scores still need to nail their interviews. And sometimes, a 60 fit score candidate with exceptional interview skills beats out higher-scoring applicants who don't connect as well with the team.

Next steps

Ready to improve your fit score? Start by reviewing the specific requirements in the job posting and identifying which areas you could strengthen in your base application. Even small improvements in how you present your experience can bump your score into the next range.

Ready to improve your fit score? Start by reviewing the specific requirements in the job posting and identifying which areas you could strengthen in your base application. Even small improvements in how you present your experience can bump your score into the next range.

Curious about alignment scores? See this related article.

More questions? Comments?

More questions? Comments?

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