Job searching is overwhelming, and an emotional rollercoaster! If you haven’t done it for a long time, it’s also confusing. The obvious thing to do is apply for job adverts on the job boards. However, clients often tell me, they feel their resume “disappears into a black hole” and they never hear back!
For many people, losing their job can also cause them to panic and focus on the negatives, wondering if they will ever get a job again! Believing in yourself and staying positive are very important. Taking the time to think about what makes you happy at work, and what you want next, are crucial. Many of my clients have heard me say, “just because you can do something, doesn’t mean to say you should”
If you are looking for a new role this year, follow these 5 steps to help you gain clarity and create a job search routine that delivers results:
Step 1 – Your Pre Work
For many people looking to change jobs, the first thing they do is jump onto the Seek job board and start applying for roles! Now in a buoyant job market this may work, and you might get interviews fairly quickly. However, are these really jobs or companies you would actually want to work for? You may find yourself caught in an interview process, wondering if you even want the job. Don’t let this happen to you.
Instead, take time to create a plan and really think about what you want next. Additionally, don’t just rely on recruiters to find you a job. Approach your network. Some clients will say they have tried this previously and it didn’t get them a job. However, even if you have tried the network path before and it didn’t actually find you a job, it will boost your self-confidence and motivation. This helps create a more positive mindset. It also helps change your demeanour for job interviews. Staying motivated and having a purpose and focus, is very important for your own well being.
Also, remember that only 30% of jobs are found through job boards and recruiters. The remaining 70% are found through networking. This is what many people refer to as the hidden job market. This refers to jobs that are not advertised or posted online. They are jobs that are primarily filled through people’s network.
Step 2 – Your Message
A big part in doing all of this means you should consider your personal brand. The overall message you are telling the recruiters and the job market. This is not just made up of your resume, LinkedIn, and cover letter It is your value proposition and your “who”, “what” and “why”
Spend time thinking about why you want a new job. What do you like about your current role and company and what do you not like? If you are unsure about this, then refer back to step one. Reach out to people in your network who you trust. Ask their opinion about you. What would they see you doing next and what would they recommend. Maybe speak with an ex-boss who you enjoyed working for. You don’t need to ask for a job, just their advice. People are happy to help, but you need to ask them first.
Step 3 – Creating a Routine
Humans love routine. When you are job searching it is really important to have a routine. No one wants to get to the end of each day realising they have just spent 5 hours watching Netflix, and conducted zero job search activity! To create a workable routine, set clear time goals each day and week. For example, if you are not working, then Monday to Friday conduct your job searching 10am to 2pm. If you are currently in a job, then you may do this 6pm to 8pm each night.
Your Job Search Routine :
- Each week, ensure your resume and LinkedIn are always up to date and selling your skills. Page one of your resume must tell everyone who you are and what you can do. Your LinkedIn headline, About section and Experience section must do the same.
- Create a list of companies you would like to work for. Then follow them on LinkedIn, connect with who would be your boss and also peers. Like and comment on their LinkedIn posts. Doing this makes you more visible to people.
- Each day spend 1 to 2 hours applying for jobs through the job boards, including LinkedIn, and also speaking with recruiters.
- Each day spend at least 1 to 2 hours networking. Do this by reaching out to your contacts and asking for their advice. This is an informational interview and is not just asking if they have any jobs.
- Dedicate one day a week to booking meetings. Get out of the house and meet people face to face and ask for their advice. Always make sure you pay for the coffee!
Next Steps :
- Think about your story and what you are looking for. Practice your “Tell me about yourself”story.
- Track everything you do, use Excel or a journal or a relevant app.
- Ensure you always follow up and thank people within 24 hours of meeting them. This is so important. It’s not just good manners, it also reinforces the positive impression you made and reminds people you are out there. Thank them for their time, tell them how much you enjoyed meeting them and you appreciated them being so helpful. Remind them again that if there is ever anything you can do to assist them then you would be happy to help.
- Then at 2pm, or whenever works for you, give yourself a break! Go and meet friends, spend time with family, get outdoors and refresh and get ready to start it all again tomorrow!
Step 4 – Persistence
Never give up! Persistence and patience will eventually pay off! At the end of each day, make a list of the things you need to do tomorrow. At the end of each week, make a list of what you need to do on Monday. Keep your activity spreadsheet continually updated. This can all take a few months, but it is something you control. The more effort you consistently put in the more you will get out of it.
Remember, once you do find a job, keep all this information in case you need it again in the future. In a few years time, many of the people on your list may have moved jobs and have new things happening they can tell you about.
Step 5 – Gratitude
Finally, once you find a new job, email or call everyone you met. Send a final thank you note with the good news and your new contact information. The people who helped you will feel pride in your success. You will find that every city is really like a small town, particularly amongst peers in your industry. You will keep running into the same people in your field, again and again in the years ahead.
Whenever you’re ready, there are 3 ways I can help you:
- Career crossroads and need clarity? Click here
- Maximise your LinkedIn and Resume for a successful job search, click here
- Nail that job interview and get the job offer, click here
Alternatively, if you are feeling overwhelmed or are unsure where to start and need help with EVERYTHING click here
