A list of ‘MUSTS’ when searching for your next role
Searching for your next career move can be a daunting process but it can also be an exciting journey with huge possibilities that are just around the corner.
In this blog, I’ve compiled a list of ‘musts’ to help keep you on track when searching for your next role:
Clear Goals.
- Define your career goals and streamline your search suitably. Consider, what are you looking to achieve in the short and long term? It has been proven (in recent research) that thinking about your objectives and manifesting your dreams, will help you find a role that aligns with your overall career aspirations.
Skills Assessment.
- Identify and understand your skills and strengths as a professional. What do you bring to the table, and what can you do to enhance the areas where you may have identified that you are lacking?
Research.
- Do your research!!! Investigate potential employers, their culture, and values. If a company’s values and behaviour resonate with you, go for it! You might just be on the right path to a more fulfilling work experience in an environment that aligns to your moral and ethical compass.
Well written CV and Covering Letter.
- Proof reading is an investment of time that is often underrated! Be sure to check, format, and tailor your CV (and covering letter if relevant) for each application. Put yourself in the shoes of those reading your CV. Does your profile highlight your skills and experiences that are relevant to the role that you are applying for? Is the paper portrayal of you, an accurate reflection of the real you?
Social Media/Online Presence
- Like it or loathe it, it is an unavoidable part of recruitment and most hiring processes. Ensuring your online presence is not only present but is also professional and up to date is essential in the current market. Review your social platforms. Are your social media accounts marked as ‘private’? Are they a fair mirror of your true self and your reality? Just as you have spent time researching the person who is interviewing you, it’s worth bearing in mind that the person you are keen to impress has likely had a sneak at your online profile!
Interviews – Be Prepared!
- We all know the saying about poor preparation (not to be repeated here)! However, preparing for your interview, and researching about your potential new employer could be the difference between successful appointment and not. Practice and be familiar with your own answers and information and expect that you may be required to answer competency-based questions. Be ready to discuss your experiences, share your highlights, and showcase your skillset that align with the role requirements.
Salary, Benefits and Compensation.
- Consider the whole package on offer, to ensure it aligns to your essential requirements, not necessarily your desirable. Does it align with your financial needs and goals? Are there any perks and benefits programmes that support and enhance your lifestyle? Do the role logistics suit your lifestyle and geographical location? It is essential that you ensure that the role offers and meets your essential requirements as a minimum to ensure overall satisfaction.
Gut Feeling – Excited or Unsure?
- Pursue a job that genuinely excites you and mirrors your interests and passions. Post interview, step back, and listen to your instincts. How did you feel during the interview? What were your thoughts after the interview? Are you motivated to go for the next interview? Do you have niggling doubts and concerns after meeting the potential employer? Making sure this decision is the right one, involves asking questions and exploring the opportunity to enable you to make an informed decision. Ultimately, this decision could be, and can be, life changing for you. Therefore, it’s crucial to wait for the right opportunity rather than take the wrong one, only to find you’re back on the hunt in six months (or less) time!
Searching for a job is not just about finding any job, it’s about finding the right job for you.
I hope these short but sweet ‘must haves’ will help you navigate the market effectively, taking your career in the direction you seek.
This is YOUR time and it’s exciting!