Whether you’re tossing up the pros and cons of changing employer, or you’re considering a completely new career, looking for a new job requires patience, planning and research. Along the way, it’s good to maintain a positive attitude and to remember that you’re in charge of your job search.
There are a few practical steps you can take to give your job search momentum. From perfecting your CV to working on your personal brand; getting proactive and finding out more about your industry can do wonders for your career. If you’re feeling stuck in your job search, take a look at our top tips.
1. Think About What You Want from Your Job
Ultimately, there are a number of reasons for wanting to leave a job, but it really comes down to evaluating what’s most important to you. For instance, if you aren’t fond of the organisation you work for but love the job you do, there are likely to be many similar jobs in the market that may be more fulfilling. Begin by researching employers and seeking out their company values and culture, this way you’ll get a good idea of whether you’ll fit in well with the team and management.
However, if the job itself is getting you down and you no longer enjoy it, then a more drastic career change may be needed. Switching careers is an exciting prospect, but it can have an impact on your role level, income, and work/life balance. Think carefully about what you’ve valued throughout your jobs, and consider your strengths and weaknesses and what you’re passionate about. Once you decide which career or industry interests you, you can research and explore your options further. No matter the reason for the change, make sure to prepare yourself in advance.
2. Keep Your CV Up to Date
Treat your CV as a living document. Make sure your CV is up to date, well-designed, and written with perfect spelling and grammar. Ensure that as well as listing your responsibilities and competencies, you also highlight your experience and achievements on your CV. Focus on demonstrating your progression over the years, and what you can contribute to your next employer. By having a CV that is up to date and is tailored to the job you are applying for, you are far more likely to stand out from the crowd and succeed in your job search.
3. Work on your Personal Brand
To be successful in your career, it’s vital to promote your personal brand. A strong personal brand is a chance to introduce yourself to your industry and to make yourself known. However, rather than trying to sell yourself straight away, get busy with social media and build your personal brand on your own channels; especially on a professional network like LinkedIn. This social networking site is the go-to place for professionals to show off their skills, and companies use it to scope out possible talent.
Research shows 95% of Recruiters use LinkedIn as a prime search engine for sourcing candidates. Hiring managers follow suit, with 55% having reconsidered a candidate based on what they found on their social media. Make sure that your social media content isn’t impacting negatively on your personal brand if prospective employers check your profile during the hiring process. Overall, successful networking can uncover jobs that are exclusive in your industry. It can also provide you with leverage to promote your unique personal brand.
4. Network
A great way to enhance your personal brand is to become more involved with your industry, by going to industry events and joining industry associations. Associations can offer services such as business networking events and conferences tailored to your specific industry. Attending these events can open up many opportunities where you can build genuine connections. If you’re confident enough to speak at events definitely do so. However, if you’re more reserved try to step outside your comfort zone by talking to at least one person at each event and find people that are interesting to talk to.
Create conversations that aren’t based just around work, as some people prefer other discussions that are related to their interests and hobbies. When you come across as friendly, and show that you have similar interests, people will be more likely to interact with you on a meaningful level. After each event remember to add the people you meet on LinkedIn.
5. Find a Mentor
Whatever stage you’re at in your career, mentoring can be a powerful tool for your personal and career development. A good mentor is someone who acts as a trusted advisor, and can share their knowledge and experience, passing what they’ve learnt on to you. To find a mentor, think of someone you trust in your industry or field who is willing to give up their time to assist you. Professional industry associations often have a number of mentoring programmes, so this can be a great place to start if you’re unsure of how to connect.
6. Speak to an Expert Recruiter
Working with a Recruiter can be advantageous for your career. Recruiters are specialised at placing job seekers into roles that are perfect for their skills. They can give you advice, check your CV to make sure it is in top condition, and represent your personal brand to potential employers. To find out more perks of why you should work with a Recruiter, take a look at our previous blog.
Our experts at Beyond Recruitment can equip you with everything you need to know so that you feel comfortable and secure with your next career move. Don’t wait for tomorrow, get in touch today.
