With the New Year looming many of us take the time to assess where we are in our lives and where we want to be at next year end. With that comes the motivation to change jobs or start a brand-new career. Although daunting, job hunting and change doesn’t have to be scary, instead it can be exciting!
However, rather than simply sending off applications left, right and centre, instead take your time and give yourself the best chance at success by following these 5 tips for preparing to job hunt.
1. Reflect on Yourself
Before you begin scouring job sites, set some time aside for yourself to sit down and reflect. Think about what you have done in the past, what you are doing now and what you would like to do in the future. Focus on aspects of your previous and current job roles that you loved and aspects you really didn’t like.
Try not to focus on JUST your current sector, why not broaden your horizons and think about other sectors you might be interested in? This self-reflection should allow you to make a list of what you want and don’t want to see when reading job listings.
2. Assess the Job Market
Now that you know what you are looking for in a job, you can begin assessing the job market in your area. Start by searching through online job sites, LinkedIn, and websites of companies you would like to work for. Make sure to check the job descriptions against your skills and attributes list. Save any of interest in a separate document or notes app so you don’t lose them. Research the companies and read up on reviews from current and ex-employees. This will help you build a picture of the company and if you could see yourself working there.
3. Tackle Knowledge Gaps
After your assessment of the job market look through your saved job listings and double check the requirements for the role. Bear in mind that job adverts are usually written with the company’s PERFECT candidate in mind. It is often unlikely that one person will fit every single requirement on the listing. Remember, lots of your skills will be transferrable, in that they can be used any role. This includes skills such as communication, leadership and problem solving.
However, if you can spot substantial gaps in your own knowledge, such as needing to know a certain software package, look for ways to improve. For example, this could be through online courses or self-teaching using online tutorials.
4. Spruce Up Your Socials
Now it is time to check over your social media accounts such as Facebook and Instagram. Make sure that if a potential employer was to come across them there is nothing inappropriate that could harm your application. Simply making your accounts private to only you and your close friends is a simple fix but if you need a public account, give it the once over.
Don’t neglect LinkedIn, if you have one already, update it, if you don’t have one, make one! Potential employers will look fondly upon active and informative LinkedIn profiles. This is also a way for you to engage with your future employers during the application process, setting you apart from the competition whilst job hunting.
5. Update Your CV
Finally, it’s time to dig out your CV and give it an update. Make sure all your personal details are correct and that your most recent experience and education is listed. Tailoring your CV to the job you are applying for is also essential. For more tips on creating the perfect CV check out our blog on the subject!
Bonus – Seek Support from Careersolve
Bonus Tip – Contact our team here at Careersolve for support in your job search! We understand that looking for a new job or completely changing your career is stressful. That’s why we are here to help you through every step of your journey. We take the time to get to know you and your aspirations. This ensures that we find you not just any job, but one that fits you perfectly. Contact our team today for support with your job hunting!
