New year, new job, new you
A new year is on the horizon and the festive break will undoubtedly see your thoughts turn to whether or not you’re getting the job satisfaction and career development you want from your current role. This time of year is, unsurprisingly, a popular time for many of us to start the search for our next perfect career move, but if you haven’t done so for a while it can be rather a daunting prospect. Where do you start and what are the best methods?
There are many different routes to market, so to speak, but the important thing is you see yourself as a valuable asset employers should take note of and be keen to recruit and retain. If you’ve been stuck in a job that hasn’t given you this confidence, it can be tricky to think in a more positive way about your market worth, so seize upon the headspace you’ll gain over the Christmas holidays and jot down three reasons why you fit the description above and three things you’re searching for in your next career move. Refer back to them whenever the job-hunting gets tough or you feel like giving up.
You’ll be surprised how quickly you feel like your old self again once you find a new job that’s the perfect fit. Here’s how to get started:
Job alerts– sign up with websites that are industry specific.
Recruitment consultancies– approach agencies that specialise in your field of expertise but don’t expect to yield results straight away, as more often than not it’s all about relationship building and staying on their radar. Keep in touch with an email or phone call every couple of weeks.
Be patient – dream jobs don’t grow on trees. If you’re contacted about an opportunity, don’t apply for the sake of it. Be clear about what you’re after and hold your nerve - you never know what’s waiting just round the corner.
Think positive – it may be a cliché, but there’s lots of truth to it. Be in the right state of mind and seize opportunities where you are or elsewhere.
New perspectives – you might be bored of where you are now, but hopefully the dawn of a new year has made you feel more optimistic about things. Try looking at your current role and organisation in a new light – there may be opportunities available you didn’t realise or know about before. Be proactive in making the most of things.
LinkedIn – if you’re not already using this professional social media app, you’re missing out, as it’s great for job adverts, networking and making new career connections, as well as general industry insight. Follow the companies you’re interested in working for and view the profiles of key personnel who might be interested in learning more about you.
Update your CV – keep it succinct but flexible, so you can quickly tailor it to each job you apply for. Use results and achievements as evidence of your suitability for a role and keep the layout and language easy to read.
Speculate to accumulate – don’t wait for potential employers to advertise; be proactive and seize the initiative by giving them a call or dropping them an email on the off-chance they’re looking for someone of your calibre.
