Three Keys to Starting the Job Hunt
So, you’ve made the decision to start looking for a new job. You navigate to a job board and look at the overwhelming endless list of possibilities. You scroll and start feeling a bit of dread, realizing that you may be jumping into the deep end. Chances are that is true - many people don’t know how to best prepare for getting back into the job search. Luckily, there are a few great steps you can take to prepare yourself for starting to look!
First and foremost, you need to know what you are looking for before you are going to find it. Start thinking about why you are interested in a new role. For example, are you looking for a job with better benefits? Is your decision based primarily off of needing different pay? Some people start searching when their work/life balance becomes too overwhelming. Whatever your reasoning, write down or mentally organize the top few reasons you are making the switch. Knowing your own top priorities can help you find the right role faster
Once you understand what you are looking for, make sure to update your resume. While it will often be necessary to edit your resume based on the jobs you are applying to, creating an updated starting point can help speed up that process. Make sure you add any new skills, certifications, or credentials you have received since your last job search.
Another great step you can take to help yourself as you begin a new job search is to reach out to your network. Talk to those closest to you, whether that be friends, family, colleagues, or professional acquaintances. You would be shocked at how many jobs come purely from someone being referred - letting those around you know that you are looking can help you find the right role without actually even applying to a job! Some great places to reach out is through social media, your past coworkers who may have moved on to new roles, or any mentors you may have.
The job search can really be intimidating. Make it less hard by setting yourself up for success in the beginning!
Summary:
1 - Decide what you want in your new role. Why are you looking?
2 - Update your resume!
3 - Reach out to your network.