Time for a change? Guide to finding a new job

Sometimes we get to that point where we want a change and feel we’ve gone as far as we can in our current role. So if you’re at that stage and want to step up your search for a new job, what do you need to do? Well, here are a few tips…

Identify your strengths

The desire to move on can sometimes be quite overwhelming even if we don’t have a definite idea of what we’d like to do next. So in order to find a job you’ll enjoy, it can worth sitting down and writing a list of what skills and capabilities you have.

Once you’ve done this, you’ll be able to measure yourself against any job descriptions you come across and work out whether you fit the bill. If you do, you can apply for these jobs straight away, and if you don’t, you can either work to address where you fall short or seek work in a different field.

Overhaul your CV

If you’ve been in the same job for a number of years, chances are you’ve not taken a fresh look at your CV for a while. So make sure it’s up to date, particularly if you have a few notable achievements and successes under your belt since you started your current job. These recent accomplishments could be decisive in influencing your job prospects.

But be mindful of the fact that you can’t send the same CV to every recruiter – every single application needs to be tailored to the job you’re chasing, so it’s relevant and shows you’ve read the job description.

Sign up to LinkedIn

LinkedIn can be a great tool to find new jobs, as companies post details of vacancies on the site and individuals can use the platform to connect on a deeper level with people in their chosen industry. So create a profile on LinkedIn, follow the firms you’re interested in, build a network with the right people and make it easy for your page to be found.

Also, think about what message you want to put across and ask yourself if your profile conveys it adequately. When you look at your page through the eyes of a recruiter who might be headhunting for fresh talent, you’ll soon see what information you need to get across.

Build your brand on other platforms

It isn’t just LinkedIn where you can make yourself seen online. Many of us are also signed up to Facebook, Twitter and plenty of other social media platforms. But remember, they might contain things that you don’t want an employer to see, so either tighten your privacy settings or delete the offending content altogether!

Instead, work to ensure your various social media profiles all project the right image of you and one that employers are likely to buy into. Social media stalking is something jobseekers have to accept goes on, so it makes sense to showcase an image that you want them to see.

Show some initiative

Not every job is advertised straight away and you could jump to the front of the queue if you get in touch asking for opportunities. Corporate updates and new company blog posts might give clues that a firm will be recruiting soon and by showing you’ve read these, you’ll be showing you have a genuine desire to work there.

Great job opportunities won’t always land at your feet – you have got to get out there and let yourself be noticed for the right reasons. So if you follow the above recommendations, you won’t go far wrong!