We’re often pretty inspired at the start of each year to reflect on our lives, career and so on. And, when it comes to setting those annual goals and making resolutions, career changes are often a big part of that thought process. When it comes to setting out on a job hunt, there’s many ways to prepare to help ensure a successful search and ultimately a smooth transition. If you’re ready to start looking, but you aren’t exactly sure how, here are a few job hunting tips to get you going down the right path.
6 Essential Job-Hunting Tips
- Start doing research on the companies you think you might be interested in pursuing. You have to start somewhere, and knowing the type of company you’d like to work for is a great place to start. Whether you’re looking for something large or small, casual or more formal – no matter what – identify what interests you most. If there’s a specific company you’re interested in, but you don’t see any obvious opportunities, reach out and network to get a foot in the door.
- Spend time applying for the jobs you’re truly interested in. Rather than just sending your resume to as many listings as possible in a single day, spend the time to submit a quality application. If you really want the job, you’ll take the time to complete all the steps – even if that means sending a cover letter and a portfolio. Remember – hiring managers can easily recognize quality submissions.
- Remember how important networking is. Sometimes it’s pretty tough to get your resume through the door if you don’t know someone. Tapping into your professional and personal network is where it’s at. No matter what type of job you’re after, ask around rather than simply submitting online applications. The opportunities are often right in your backyard.
- Give your LinkedIn profile an overhaul. It may sound daunting, but it actually can be pretty fun. You’re making yourself look good, after all! So why not strut your stuff? Get in there and bring everything up-to-date. Show off your recent accomplishments, add a recent profile image, share some of your best projects and make sure you’re displaying current contact information.
- Reach out to a headhunter. Staffing agencies, recruiters and head hunters can be a huge help when it comes to landing your next big gig, they know where the jobs are and exactly how to get your foot in the door. They can also help you narrow down exactly what you’re looking for and guide the process in the right direction.
- Get creative. If a big change is what you’re after, don’t be afraid to think outside the box when it comes to looking for new opportunities – you never know what’s out there! If you’re game for a massive career change, start checking out the job listings in that new field that you’re thinking about or tap your friend network to see what’s out there – even if you have no experience. Bottom line – you’ll never know unless you ask.
Are your ready to shake things up and make a big change for the New Year?
