A recent Society of Human Resource Management (SHRM) survey found that 75% of the nation's employees are looking for a new job. So, if you’re planning to restart your career or search for a completely new kind of job, you’re not alone. It’s important for you to see this journey as both a challenge and an opportunity. All it takes to reach your career goals is some common sense and hard work. So… where do you begin?
1. Get clear about what you want.
You can’t go out into the world and find your perfect career if you have no idea what it will look like when you see it! The first step in any job search or career change is to get very clear about what you are seeking in your next position. Not just the job title or industry, but the way your days will unfold and how your new career will serve you in your personal life.
2. Set a strategy.
Just as you would with any business initiative, a career change begins by understanding the “context” and setting priorities. So, once you’ve figured out what you want – that’s the context. Setting a strategy now requires you asking yourself ‘how do I go about getting what I want?’ Reconcile your own ideas with the input of others to target your optimal job, layout a plan to get interviews, and land that perfect position! Think about the steps you must take to get your dream job and start working through them logically one at a time.
4. Discover how to sell yourself.
Accept it – when you’re looking for a job you’re a salesman. And the product you are selling is YOU! Know your pitch inside and out. Get so comfortable talking about yourself that you can do it in your sleep. Figure out what differentiates you from all the other people clamoring for work, and make sure you get those points across in all of your job search activities.
5. Network, Network, Network!
We live in a networking world. A large percentage of the work force found their current job through a friend, family member or business associate. Especially during career changes, when your resume might not be enough, connecting with potential employers through other people gives you a powerful boost in an interview. So network, but always ask yourself, “How can this discussion move me one step closer to my objective?” Also, be sure to express gratitude for the favors you receive.
6. Prepare.
Go into every interaction, whether a formal interview or a networking meeting, having done research about the company and the people with whom you are meeting. Restarting a career or looking for a job in a field where you have little experience already puts you at a disadvantage, so don’t walk in blind. Show everyone you meet that you care enough to do your homework!
AND FINALLY …
Stay confident and trust yourself. Making a career transition is pretty straightforward – so dive in and enjoy the journey!
No comments:
Post a Comment