Searching for that next move in your career can seem overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Sometimes, laying out a few steps before you start your search can help the task seem less overwhelming.
I’ve listed some tips below to help you get started. You can also tune in to my live chat on Tuesday, April 7, at 1 p.m. to learn more about how to have a successful job search.
Set an agenda for yourself. Focus on one to three job opportunities you’d like to pursue and then tailor your resume to each of those positions.
Develop a network. Connect with at least 25 to 30 folks a week and follow up with them regularly. Regardless of the job you are after, you are marketing yourself. It’s essentially a numbers game; the more people you reach out to, the more likely you are to succeed. Also join professional organizations and develop your online network using sites such as LinkedIn and Facebook.
Look for job opportunities in a variety of places. Look at online and print classifieds. When you apply for jobs online, you might not necessarily get a response, in part because of the breadth of applications submitted. All the more reason why it’s important to build, and stay connected with, a network of people who can help you stay on top of opportunities.
Develop your strengths, recognize your weaknesses. Prepare a strong statement (for your resume, job interview, etc.) to help showcase your talent and accomplishments. But also know what gets in your way. Procrastination, isolation, failure to continue to build a network and fear of cold calling can prevent you from attaining the goal you are after — a new job.
Be driven and consistent when following your agenda. Use all the research and connections you can find to take advantage of the opportunities that will help you move forward in your career. Actively pursuing a job can take a lot of work, but it’s time well-spent.
