Time for a career change? Job hunting tips for professionals
As the year draws to its festive conclusion, it’s natural to look forward and make plans, perhaps think about a change of role or career direction. And this year it feels like the wave of change in the job market is stronger than ever. I wonder if you feel it too?
If there was ever a time to prepare for your ideal job, it’s right now. January and February are traditionally the busiest months of the year for recruiters. So if you’re thinking about making a change, start now and get ahead of the competition.
It’s a job seeker’s market
A good friend has been ready to change jobs for the last two years. They knew what their ideal role looked and felt like, but were unsure who their next employer would be. A few job offers arrived, but my friend knew they weren’t right and declined them. Staying focused and productive in their current role, they carried on searching until they found ‘the one’.
My friend has now been in their ideal role for three months, although they say it feels much longer because it feels so right. They love the company culture, and the people are friendly, welcoming and down to earth with no airs and graces. There are also amazing career progress opportunities in the organisation. My friend is so grateful for having spent time looking carefully for the right role. Their patience has paid off.
I keep hearing on the news there’s never been a better time to find a new job. For the first time in a while, there’s plenty of choice in the job market, particularly within organisations that have been hit hard by Brexit and the pandemic. Then there’s the growing businesses that have been born out of the pandemic. The truth is employers are actively looking for talented people who WANT to work for them. It’s a job hunter’s dream!
There are loads of opportunities available and I share a few on my LinkedIn feed, connect here if you’re interested to see them and hear more from me.
Find your perfect job match
Have you ever heard a story about an organisation and thought, ‘I’d love to work for them’?
Whether or not you have a dream job or an ideal employer in mind, following these simple steps could help you to seek out new opportunities and take the next step in your career.
1. Are you already connected?
Think about the businesses and brands you love and would like to work for. Look them up on LinkedIn and check if you’re connected to any current employees. If not, do any of your connections know anyone who works there?
A personal introduction is a warm lead and great for both employer and employee; you’re starting from a place of recommendation rather than a blank canvas.
2. What makes them stand out?
Write a list of all the reasons why you can see yourself being part of that organisation. What it is that attracts you to them?
Now go back to LinkedIn and say hello to those warm connections. Strike up a conversation like you would with a friend in a coffee shop. Be honest about your intentions and ask about vacancies. Express your interest and share the reasons you’re attracted to their business.
3. Ask about training and development
Let’s say there’s a position available but you’re not confident about your ability to fulfil the role. Ask if they offer training. Organisations are attracted to people who are willing to learn and keen to make a difference in their team. Attitude is everything. Skills can be taught, especially to a willing learner.
Show that you have the right attitude and want to make a positive difference.
4. Do your research and start applying
Once you’ve found a vacancy that excites you, read up on their website, social media feeds and third party news articles. Read the job application process thoroughly and follow the steps to complete your application.
Use your research to back up your application in your cover letter or personal statement. Tell them why you’d be a great addition to their team and what attracted you to the company. Be yourself and your passion and personality will shine through.
Speculative job applications
No job vacancies at your dream company? Why not send them your CV anyway. What’s the worst that could happen?
Building the dream team
Once you find a company with a fabulous culture, it’s simply awesome. Great employers help and support great people to be successful. They create a workplace that’s safe, considered and a pleasure to be a part of.
It’s clear there are employers out there who are looking for fabulous people to work for them. They won’t find you if you don’t let them know their ideal employee exists. Get cracking and give these employers the opportunity to have YOU in their winning team.
You’re in the driving seat.