10 Small Simple Steps To Help Your Job Search

Is a new or another job needed in the last quarter of 2021. If so, you might think you've mastered the art of the job search – but think again. In 2021, it takes more than tailoring your resume and preparing thoroughly for interviews to get your ideal position.. This year, there are several new recommendations to add to the list.

From taking a calculated risk to highlighting transferable skills for a sideways move, it may be the time 2021 to 'self disrupt' your career.

Here's how:

1. TAKE CALCULATED RISKS

Disruption is impacting all industries and the traditional notion that a career involves working your way up the ranks of one chosen profession is changing along with it. So, before beginning your job search decide which jobs you should apply for that will best serve you long term. The next step may offer an immediate salary increase, but a sideways move could allow you to learn new skills and take your career down a slightly different but more sustainable or rewarding career path. Such safe disruption will keep your skills relevant and employable for the long haul.

2. BREVITY MATTERS

Next update your resume. Hiring managers and recruiters still want to see a two page resume, yet this is far from the norm. In fact, you'd be amazed at how many resumes are four or more pages long. You don't need to list every job you've had since high school. Rather than simply adding each new job to the top of a resume you first created 15 years ago, take the time to refresh it completely. An added advantage is that by crafting your resume in today's acceptable format, and adding those all important keywords you're more likely to get past initial screening algorithms or applicant tracking systems.

3. SKILLS ARE NOT COMPETENCIES

The relevancy of your skills and competencies to the job you've applied for is your top method of standing out. But many people fail to sell themselves to the best of their ability because they don't understand the difference between the two. Take the time to research the differences, so you can win an interview by showing which specific skills and competencies make you successful in the job.

(Skills are the specific learned abilities that you need to perform a given job well. Competencies, on the other hand, is your knowledge and behaviours that lead you to be successful in a job).

4. PAIR YOUR ONLINE AND OFFLINE CONTENT

It may seem obvious, but there are still plenty of examples of people who submit a resume that does not align with their professional social media. It's job seeking 101 - your social media should round out and enhance your resume, not send up red flags. Add relevant examples of your work, backup

with quantifiable evidence, and ask as many relevant colleagues or associates as possible for recommendations that highlight the key skills and competencies required in the jobs you're applying for.

5. TELL A STORY

When preparing for job interviews, think of real-life examples you can share that demonstrate how you have successfully used the skill or competency in question to add value. Employers are less likely to take a chance on an unproven candidate so use your previous successes to paint a picture in the interviewers mind of you doing the job well.

6. SHOW OFF YOUR SOFT SKILLS

From a willingness to learn to adaptability and interpersonal skills, demonstrate soft skills that supplement your technical skills and give you an advantage in the jobs market. Given this, it's advisable to conduct a soft skills self-audit and up-skill to overcome any gaps. Even if your soft skills are strong, continue to take every opportunity in your existing job to improve yours. Don't forget to add your soft skills to your resume and professional social media profiles too.

7. HIGHLIGHT TRANSFERABLE SKILLS

If you are looking to make a sideways move, promote your transferable skills. Employers are open to considering candidates who are interested in a sideways move, particularly in skill short areas. This can be a sensible step for candidates who want to break out of their current mold to diversify their experiences so make sure you highlight your transferable skills on your resume to show what makes you a suitable candidate for their role

8. DON'T RAISE SALARY TOO EARLY

Employers are wary of any candidates who ask about money too early in the process. If you are using a recruiter, they will give you an indication of the salary available. Also, raising the topic with the hiring manager gives the impression that it's your main motivation.

9.LOOK BEYOND SALARY TO LONG TERM GAIN

When it does come time to negotiate, don't price yourself out of consideration. Consult a Salary Guide (such as www.robertwalters.com) to ensure your expectation is aligned with the current market rates rather than the figure you want.

You should also carefully consider the career progression and learning and development available in the context of your long term career goals and future employability. If a job comes with regular up-skilling it will help future proof your employability and may be of greater financial benefit longer term than the extra dollars now.

10. PLAN FOR AUTOMATION

While just 14 per cent of existing jobs could disappear over the next 15 to 20 years in response to automation, a further 32 per cent are likely to change radically according to an Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) report. This year, consider what your job would look like if 30% of your tasks were automated. Identify the higher-value non-routine tasks you could fill your time with and up-skill so you are ready and keep your skills employable for the future.

If you have been toying with the idea that coaching sessions may be beneficial to helping you achieve more of your career goals, you are welcome to book a 20 minute complimentary chat via www.cherylfinlaysoncoach.com or if easier, message me on LinkedIn to talk about your career situation, Like everything in life it is much easier when you have someone to lean on...

Take good care of your workself

Cheryl

Credit: Nick Deligiannnis