Becoming the Job Seeker

Dayna Stewart, The Nudge Group.

Recently, the shoe was on the “other foot” for me….

Being in Recruitment for nearly 20 years, I’ve been the middle man, the person who has a great client or opportunity and finds suitable people to fill the requirement. Or, the consultant who supports a candidate when in need of a change or perhaps due to circumstances out of their control, desperately needs work.

To be honest, it’s been a while since I’ve had to literally step into the “candidates’ shoes” and I can tell you, now, more than ever, I sympathise with your situation. It’s bloody hard. It’s a million emotions all rolled into one and at times, it’s consuming.  The research, the hours, the nerves, the self-doubt, the highs, the lows and the anticipation, it’s a lot to handle, especially if you have a full time “day job”.

With my recruitment background, I was equipped to handle a lot of what was thrown at me (but still needed mentors’ support), so I wanted to share some tips, hoping it will help a little whilst you tackle the interviewing path…..

·        Self-evaluation. Work out what YOU want first. Why are you considering a new role and what’s really important to you. Create a check list and reference it along the way.

·        Planning/research. When you’ve found a business you’d like to pursue, get to know them well. I mean really well. It’s important that not only does the role suit, but the values & culture align, and the longer-term goals closely match yours.

·        Talk to mentors. If you’re just starting out in your career, this could be your family, careers advisors & friends, and if you’re more advanced – reach out to people whose opinions you value most; mentors if you will. Whilst these opinions may not necessarily make up or change your mind, having a sounding board is really important, to get some clear perspective.

·        Self-doubt check list. If you’re having second thoughts, dig deep to uncover why. Does the role/company align? Are you comfortable working with your new manager/team? Or, are you just feeling uncertain due to change? Change is a scary thing, but if managed correctly it’s just a new way of thinking, a shift in perception and by allowing ourselves to break away from normality, we grow as individuals.

Transitioning roles isn’t easy, but if you keep a clear head, know what you want and be patient, you’re one step closer to securing your dream role.

If you’d like more advice on this topic, I’d love to chat. And, please share your own tips on how to tackle the daunting interview process.

Dayna Stewart

Business Director, The Nudge Group