The First Step in Job Searching

Job searching can sometimes feel like setting sail on a vast sea without a compass. It's easy to get lost in a sea of job listings, networking events, and interviews, random LinkedIn messages from recruiters especially if you're not clear about your destination.

That's why one of the first and most crucial steps in the job search journey is defining what you want to do and identifying your skillset. Sometimes this might lead to you staying in current role, company, getting into training, etc.

Know Yourself

Understanding yourself, your skills, and your aspirations is akin to charting the course for your job search. First things first, before you can begin your job search you must step back and think strategically and then design your tactics accordingly.

Here's why this step is key:

1. Clarity in Chaos:

Imagine embarking on a job search without a clear goal. You'd be tossing your resume into a black hole, hoping something sticks. By identifying what you want to do and your skillset, you can narrow your focus and find opportunities that align with your interests and abilities. As recruiter it's quite concerning see candidate's application for multiple non-related roles.

2. Targeted Networking:

Networking is the lifeblood of career growth. When you know your career direction, you can connect with professionals in your desired field, join industry-specific groups, and attend events tailored to your interests, get ideas about new career paths. This targeted networking can open doors you never knew existed.

3. Precision in Your Approach:

The "scattergun" approach—applying for every job you come across—is not only time-consuming but often ineffective. A sniper approach, on the other hand, means you apply for roles that genuinely excite you and match your skillset. This not only increases your chances of landing the job but also ensures you'll be happy once you do.

4. Interview Preparation:

When you're clear on what you want and what you bring to the table, you can confidently answer interview questions about your career goals, strengths, and why you're the ideal candidate for this specific type of role. Your preparation will stand out, leaving a positive impression.

5. Negotiating Power:

Finally, knowing the specific industry and role you're targeting empowers you during salary negotiations. You'll have a solid understanding of industry salary standards, helping you secure a compensation package that reflects your worth.

How to Get Started

1. Self-Assessment: Reflect on your passions, strengths, and areas of expertise. Ask friends, mentors, and colleagues for input on your skills and what they see as your strengths. National Careers Service London has a Skills Assessment Tool for this.
2. Industry Research: Dive deep into your desired industry. Understand the trends, job roles, and skill requirements. LinkedIn, industry publications, conferences and professional associations are great resources.
3. Set Clear Goals: Define your career goals. What position do you want? What industry excites you? What are your short-term and long-term objectives? Are you looking for a full-time position or a part-time role? Do you want a more challenging role or a better title? Do you want to work remotely or are you happy to commute? Is it mainly about money? All of these are factors you need to consider. Career is a marathon not a sprint. You need to be clear on at least your short term goals if you want company that hires you to invest into you/support you.
4. Skill Gap Analysis: Identify any gaps between your current skills and the skills required in your desired role. Consider taking courses or certifications to bridge these gaps. Can new employer support you with training via Apprenticeships, sponsoring professional qualifications, etc?
5. Refine Your Approach: Once you have a clear vision, tailor your resume, LinkedIn profile, and cover letters to match your career goals. Be specific about your aspirations and how you can make impact in the business you want to join.
6. Iterate: Sometimes our expectations are not in line with what market offers. If you have done all of the above & after few months you are not getting results - CHANGE YOUR STRATEGY. Go back to step 1 and think of transferrable skills, career change, upskilling and changing your expectations.

Remember, the journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. In the job search expedition, that first step is self-discovery. Define what you want to do, understand your skillset, and adopt a sniper approach to move your career forward.

#JobSearch #CareerDevelopment #Networking #JobSeekers #CareerGoals