How to find a new job in 7 easy steps

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Career Advice, Interview Tips Jan 11, 2017
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Are you ready for a change?

We all come to a point in our careers when it feels like it is time to move on. But where to start?

Competition for the top jobs remains rife, so it is important to approach your hunt for a new role in the right way. Here are our top tips for bringing about a career change

  • Understand what type of job you want

Career planning is an essential step when looking to find a new job.  This is the continuous process of thinking about your interests, values, skills and preferences; exploring the life, work and learning options available; ensuring that your work fits with your personal circumstances; and continuously fine-tuning your work and learning plans to help you manage the changes in your life and the world of work.

  • Work on your CV

You are your CV; it is your personal sales brochure. First impressions really do count and if you don’t make a good one then your chance of getting an interview is slim. Spend time working on your CV to make sure it stands out from the crowd and contains all the key information required – your personal details and statement, your work experience and your qualifications and achievements.

  • Focus on your job search

Invest time and energy looking for suitable positions.

Finding a new job takes time and effort. Get online, register your CV with several jobsites, consult with agencies and use social media. It is vital to look in the right places.

Individuals who are out of work should treat jobseeking as a full-time role, while others need to set time aside at evenings and weekends to do their search. This may mean making some sacrifices in the short term – but it will be worth it in the long run.

  • Network

Review your own network of contacts. Whether they are former co-workers, friends or family they may be aware of upcoming job opportunities  and even better they may be able to make some key introductions.

And remember networking is a continual process.  Always make the effort to keep in touch with people and never burn bridges.  You never know, they may well end up interviewing you in the future!

  • Prepare for the interview

There are several points to consider when preparing for an interview.

The first; do your homework.  Spend time learning about your future employer.  Find out more about the company, the culture, the job requirements and the background of the person interviewing you. This information should all be readily available on their website and social media channels.  It also shows great initiative to mystery shop the company beforehand.  This not only gives you an insight into how the business actually operates but also shows commitment.

The second; prepare your responses. Compose detailed yet concise responses to the common interview questions you expect to be asked.  Providing examples where applicable of where you have  demonstrated certain skills or accomplished outstanding results.

  • Be flexible

Competition is fierce for the top jobs therefore it is always worth being open to different options and having a little flexibility with your requirements.

Always consider the opportunity and weigh up the pros and cons.

If the salary isn’t quite what you were hoping for but the role could give you invaluable experience that will really boost your career in the future then it’s well worth while dealing with the short term pain.

Or, if the commute is slightly longer than you wanted but the opportunity and the salary are great then it may well be worth an extra hour in the car.

Remember, if you get a foot in the door, you never know what it could potentially lead to. A part time job could turn into a full time job or a freelance role could become and permanent position.

  • Don’t fear rejection

Nobody likes rejection but it is inevitable at some point. It’s how you deal with it that matters. The first thing to do is to understand why you didn’t get the job. Were you too nervous? Was the candidate they selected more experienced? Once you understand why, you can then take these learnings and implement them for next time.  As long as you are going through the right process and applying for jobs suited to your skill level and experience then with a little perseverance you will be successful.

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