We’ve given the basic tips for if you find yourself on the job market and we’ll now explore the next stages. But to recap, the top 3 (in our opinion) are:
1. Update your CV
2. Update and complete your LinkedIn profile
3. Contact and build relationships with 2 or 3 specialist recruiters.
In this second part, we will provide more tips on how to navigate the job market.
4. If you are out of work, treat your job search as your job. Have a routine, schedule in time for job searching activities, but also some time for yourself. Job search activities should be prioritised by the likelihood of success. So if you’re at an advanced stage of a process, make sure that’s the number one priority each day, chasing feedback, referees, presentations etc. If you are looking at several opportunities, prioritise the ones you are most suitable for as they’re the most likely to bring success. Break up the activity with some time for your physical and mental health.
5. If you are in work and looking for your next role, focus on just 2 or 3 opportunities and put all of your efforts into those. Hiring processes tend to be quite rigorous so you don’t want to have to research too many companies and put together a plethora of PowerPoint presentations. Don’t be afraid to say no to a recruiter, go with your gut feel.
6. Focus on finding the RIGHT COMPANY. Do your due diligence to try and assess their culture, financial stability, aspirations, and progression opportunities. It is better to join the right company in the wrong role initially, and show your capabilities and develop within that business, than to take the right role in the wrong company. Once you find the right business you can influence your role, package etc, but if you join the wrong company, you’ll just find yourself on the job market again very quickly, and possibly in a more desperate scenario.
We know everyone’s situation is different, there really isn’t a cookie-cutter approach to the job market. But hopefully these tips can help some people secure the right career move.