In today’s professional life, every aspect is highly dynamic. For instance, individuals who started a new job just two years ago and boasted about having found a ‘great job’ back then, might find themselves in need of a new job search due to various reasons the next year.
Are your reasons for job searching logical or not? You probably know better about that (hopefully). However, if you’re determined to change jobs, then I can share some insights on what to pay attention to.
Job searching is one of the intricate journeys in professional life. Hence, it requires careful planning and a strategic approach. Taking a step by thinking, ‘I’m so fed up with my current job, any job I switch to would be better than this,’ can lead you into even greater turmoil.
My first suggestion is to evaluate yourself (as objectively as possible). Before taking a plunge into new horizons, you must reflect on your skills, strengths, weaknesses, passions, and career goals. Just imagine, a strong trait that works well in your current job might become a disadvantage in your new one. Therefore, I strongly recommend utilizing scientifically developed personality tests and meticulously evaluating the analysis reports that come out of these tests.
At the very least, you can ask yourself the following questions; actually, you should:
In what work environment do I perform best?
What skills and experiences can I easily and willingly use in my new role?
What are my short-term and long-term career goals?
Considering your goals, conduct comprehensive research on industries, companies, and job roles that pique your interest. Utilize online job platforms, company websites, and professional networking platforms to gather insights into job descriptions, required qualifications, and company cultures. This phase will help you refine your desired path and get to know potential employers.
Leaving a positive first impression is always crucial. When deciding to apply for a new job, I assume you’ve already updated your resume, but also emphasize relevant skills and experiences. Along with your resume, prepare a convincing cover letter that expresses your excitement about the company and the role you’re applying for.
In today’s digital era, online platforms play a significant role in the job search process. Create or update your LinkedIn profile to showcase your skills and experiences. Connect with professionals in your desired field and engage with relevant content. Many employers post job openings on LinkedIn and other job search websites.
When you start receiving interview invitations, preparation is paramount. Research the company’s history, values, products, and recent news. Practice common interview questions and formulate thought-provoking questions to ask the interviewer. Boost your confidence by conducting mock interviews with a friend or mentor.
During interviews, emphasize how your skills and experiences align with the company’s needs. Use specific examples to showcase your achievements and problem-solving abilities. Express your enthusiasm for the role and contribution to the company’s success.
When job offers come in, carefully evaluate all the details. Consider factors such as salary, benefits, company culture, growth potential, your potential for growth within the company, work-life balance, and more.
As I mentioned at the beginning, the journey to finding a new job is challenging. An ideal journey starts with self-evaluation and ends with evaluating the appealing offers that come your way. And this journey’s smooth progression doesn’t solely depend on external factors, circumstances, or luck. There’s a lot you can do, as I’ve tried to summarize above.”