Whether you’re feeling disillusioned with your current role or just starting out and looking for your first job, it can be tricky to know where to start.
Here are our tips on getting started and finding your way to an exciting new opportunity.
What’s your position?
Are you on maternity leave and thinking of applying for a new job? Or perhaps just about to graduate and looking for new opportunities? Or recently professionally qualified and ready for your next challenge?
It’s important to think about the position you’re in and how that impacts the roles and opportunities you’re looking for.
What are you looking for?
Once you’ve thought about your position you need to consider what you’re looking for. Deciding this will stop you from applying for roles that are unsuitable. Think about the level of role you’re hoping to find, key industries you’re interested in and companies that you’d love to work for to help focus your mind, rather than blindly applying for everything.
What’s holding you back?
As well as knowing what you’re looking for, it’s important to understand if there’s anything that’s holding you back. Are you worried that you might be leaving a company that’s about to promote you? Or concerned that your new company won’t accept flexible working? Or feel that your salary does not reflect your experience? Whatever is holding you back you need to address it upfront, and try to understand why you feel that way, to stop you losing direction halfway through.
Should you keep it confidential?
Sometimes you can feel like you should be honest with your current employer, especially in a smaller company or in a position where you know your absence will really be felt. The decision on whether to tell your current employer that you’re job hunting is of course yours, however you should consider the impact. The process could take a long time and it could change your relationship with your employer, who could begin to overlook you for new opportunities.
Have you done your research?
Before you start applying, spend a little time looking around to see where jobs are advertised in your field. There are, of course, the obvious places such as Indeed and LinkedIn. However take the time to look for specialist sites too that are focussed on the industry you work in.
Have you thought outside the box?
As well as job sites think about other ways to make connections. Networking events are great opportunities to meet important people on an informal basis. If you don’t have time to attend networking events then you can of course connect with individuals on LinkedIn to show your interest in their organisation, however remember to change your settings so your current employer doesn’t see!
Have you got your CV and covering letter in order?
Of course you need to get your CV and covering letter in shape before you begin. Remember the rules of CV writing and ensure that you’re tailoring your application to each role you apply for. Really putting the effort in upfront will help you save time in the long run and make sure you’re always putting your best foot forward.
Have you thought about the logistics?
Logistics might seem irrelevant but they are really important. Do you have enough annual leave for interviews and can you commit the time to preparing your applications? Can you apply for roles everywhere or do you need to stay local? Can you work any hours or do you need to be part time? Again think about this before you start applying to save yourself the time and effort of working on applications for unsuitable roles.
Have you considered all the options?
Of course you could choose to go it alone, however you might want to consider choosing a recruitment partner. Opting for an agency that specialises in your industry can be really helpful. For example if you work in Human Resources you could find a HR specialist, who knows businesses in the local area, to help you get the interview and take that next step.
Should you just go for it?
YES! If you’re feeling like you want a new opportunity then yes, you should definitely just go for it! You’re under no obligation to accept the role you apply for, however seeing all the options out there and the potential your career has is really exciting, so good luck!
If you’re looking for a temporary, interim or permanent role in the field of Accountancy, Finance or Human Resources then we’re here to help! We cover the whole of Yorkshire and can help you find the opportunity you’re looking for. Call 01904 208065 or email admin@optimumrecruitment.co.uk
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