Starting a new job feels like a new chapter in life indeed. Every person that landed a job they really wanted knows the feeling of anticipation and excitement of preparing, choosing the outfit for the first day, and meeting their new team. So naturally, all the effort on the way to the new job proves to be worth the effort.
Before one lands a new job, there is another, more challenging stage, which can take a long time and a lot of energy. However, if you put your mind towards it, nothing will be too tough an obstacle. With a systemized approach to job search, you will see the result soon. So, take into account these tips to out your new first-day outfit as quickly as possible.
#1 Build your professional network
The more connections you have, the more chances there are to find a good job in the company you like. The best way to find the right connections is to attend professional events, lectures, and workshops. Such events usually gather motivated people that are interested in their industry. So, at some event like this, you will be able to build a network of people who are similar to you.
A digital platform for professional communication and networking is LinkedIn. When you are looking for a job, it may help you post there frequently and follow the trends in the industry. A lot of recruiters look for professionals on this platform. If you are new to it and need a little more confidence in presenting yourself, use the help of a LinkedIn Resume Service on Skillhub to polish your profile. Finally, do not forget to stay active online.
#2 Define your goals
It is impossible to get what you want if you do not know what you want. Before you start looking for a new position, take some time to think about what exactly you are looking for. With your goals defined, it will be easier to evaluate every opportunity you come across and make a weighted decision on that. If it helps, you can even take notes on the ideal work for you. When doing that, try to answer the following questions.
- What salary are you comfortable with?
- What does the scope of your responsibilities look like?
- What is the management style you will work with?
- Is it remote or in-house work?
- What does its location look like? Is it away from your home?
- What skills do you wish to apply and develop in this job?
- What will be the deal-breaker for you?
- What benefits do you expect to get from work?
Essentially, think of everything important to you in the job you can agree to. Then, keep this list in mind while making decisions.
#3 Use job boards as your go-to websites
The job search can take weeks or even months. You must get used to falling in love with the possibility of landing the attractive opening and then forget about it because some conditions just do not add up for you. Just build your linkedin profile correctly. If you approach the search systematically, you will find more opportunities to choose from and better chances to finally change the job. Make a habit of spending around an hour every day researching the job market and analyzing your opportunities.
#4 Keep your CV and portfolio up to date
Sometimes, a good opportunity may come unexpectedly, and you better be ready for that. Keep track of your growth and achievements as you work. This way, compiling everything in a well-formatted resume will be easy. Plus, you will always have something to show your potential employer if the opportunity comes. The same principle works for the portfolio.You can also add all your latest training and certifications such as PMP certification training to your skill set and make you a more valuable candidate. If your profession relies on it, update it when you have a project you are proud of.
#5 Customize the cover letter for each application
Every company looks for motivated staff. They value your application more when they see you want to work with them in particular. You have a great opportunity to express your motivation every time you apply for a job. This is what cover letters are for. Take some time to research the company you send an application to, and make your interest clear in the cover letter. Mention several things you like about the company and how your professional skills will contribute to that.
You can have some kind of a template for the cover letter about your qualification and background, yet it is important to write custom motivation for every particular workplace.
#6 Ask questions during the interview
While on the interview, one should remember that the company is also being interrogated. You will give this job the most part of your waking hours, so you need to make an effort and make an informed decision. Ask the HR about their policies, and reasons their workers quit, and the benefits or prospects they offer to their employees. Plus, such questions will show your responsible approach to the job search, which may increase your value as a potential employee.
Wrapping Up
The way to a new and better job may be full of frustrations. Some openings will sound better than they are, and some interviews will be disappointing. However, the better you are prepared, the sooner you land the desired position. With the simple tips, we listed above, this process will be more productive and less exhausting for you.