Job hunting is a multifaceted and often challenging process that requires time, effort, and a strategic approach. According to our experienced author, it involves several key stages and considerations, starting from the initial decision to seek a new role and continuing through to accepting an offer and even dealing with potential rejection.
The Decision to Move from your Current Job
The first crucial step is making the decision to move from your current job, which can be stressful and is comparable to major life events like divorce or moving house. This decision might be driven by various factors, such as dissatisfaction, lack of fulfilment, or external circumstances like redundancy or dismissal. It’s essential to clarify your reasons for wanting a new job, as this will inform your entire job search and is a common interview question. A helpful tip to assess your job satisfaction is to track the days you feel unhappy; if it’s more than half your working days over six weeks, it might be time for a change.
Analysing Your Needs and Wants to Find a Job That Truly Suits You
Once you’ve decided to move, it’s vital to analyze your individual needs and wants to find a job that truly suits you. This involves listing what you liked and disliked about previous roles to understand your preferences and personality traits. You should identify your “Most Important Things” (MITs) – the three non-negotiable factors your next role must contain. Common reasons for seeking a new job include wanting more money, dissatisfaction, seeking more experience, wanting to work closer to home, lack of promotion opportunities, desiring a different company size, issues with a boss, wanting different hours, a complete career change, or feeling unappreciated. Understanding your motivations is crucial to avoid becoming a “job hopper” who frequently changes jobs without clear reasons.
Preparing Your CV
A brilliant CV is a vital tool in securing interviews. It’s your “passport to an interview” and should contain relevant details applicable to the specific job you’re applying for, highlighting your skills and experience. It’s important to be aware that CV formats and expectations differ. Common misconceptions about CVs include the need to list every past job in detail, the idea that more information is always better, and the belief that a CV alone will get you the job. Instead, focus on skills, achievements, and relevance to the target role. You should identify your skills and achievements by reflecting on your past roles and even activities outside of work. Achievements demonstrate your ability to apply your skills and knowledge. When writing your CV, use power words that employers commonly use in job advertisements. Key sections of a CV include contact details, a profile summarizing your strengths, objectives (optional), key skills, employment history (relevant roles with concise descriptions and achievements), education, and personal details (driving license, hobbies – be mindful of relevance). Avoid including unnecessary information like your current salary or references (unless specifically requested). Tailoring your CV to each specific job application, a process known as skill matching, is crucial for highlighting the most relevant qualifications. Aim for an 80% match between your CV and the employer’s wishlist in the job description.
Finding the Job
Once your CV is ready, the next step is actively searching for job opportunities. This involves planning your search by setting objectives and keeping a job-hunting diary to track your efforts. Effective job search methods include:
- Online Recruitment: The internet has become a primary platform for job advertising. Numerous job websites cater to various industries, skills, locations, and general roles. Registering with relevant job boards allows you to set up job alerts, upload your CV to CV databases (with confidentiality options if needed), and use application management systems to streamline your applications. Researching which job sites are most relevant to your target roles is essential.
- Recruitment Consultants: Recruitment agencies can be an invaluable resource, offering access to advertised and unadvertised jobs and industry contacts. Different types of agencies exist, including executive search (headhunters), high-street, and specialist agencies. Building a relationship with your consultant by being honest about your skills and job search is important.
- Newspapers and Trade Publications: While online postings dominate, newspapers and trade publications still advertise jobs, particularly in specific market sectors.
- Job Centres: Modern job centres offer access to job databases (Jobpoint) and online resources.
- Job Fairs: Attending job fairs allows you to meet potential employers directly, provided you are prepared with research and copies of your CV.
- Career Counsellors: These professionals can offer career advice and support, although their services are typically fee-based.
- Networking: Informing friends, family, and contacts that you are job hunting can uncover hidden opportunities.
Applying for the Job
Depending on the employer, you might need to complete an application form or submit a covering letter with your CV. Application forms are structured to gather specific information and ensure a standardized comparison of candidates. When completing them, always answer every question, relate your skills and experience to the job requirements, and highlight relevant achievements. A covering letter serves as an introduction to your CV and allows you to highlight your unique selling points and tailor your application to the specific role. There are different types of covering letters: in response to an advertisement, cold/speculative, and networking letters. Each should be concise, focused on what you can offer the employer, and use power words.
Telephone Interviews
Sometimes, employers conduct telephone interviews to screen candidates. Prepare for these by having your job application details and research handy. Speak clearly, listen carefully, and don’t be afraid to ask for clarification.
The Interview
The interview is a critical stage where the employer assesses if you “can do the job,” “will you do the job,” and “will you fit in?”. Thorough preparation is key to success. This includes preparing yourself mentally, developing your knowledge about your skills and achievements, the company, and the job. Anticipate common interview questions and prepare your answers, focusing on your strengths and how they align with the role. Have well-thought-out questions to ask the interviewer to demonstrate your interest. Plan your journey to the interview location in advance. Practice relaxation techniques to manage nerves. Competence-based interviews are common, where interviewers ask about past behaviors to predict future performance. Be prepared for behavioural questions and situational questions by recalling specific examples and how you handled them. During the interview, maintain relevance in your answers and highlight the characteristics employers seek, such as motivation, teamwork, and problem-solving skills. After the interview, evaluate your performance and send a follow-up letter to each interviewer to reinforce your interest.
Job Offers and Negotiations
Receiving a job offer is a significant achievement, but it’s important to evaluate it carefully. Consider factors like job content, supervisor, salary and benefits, location, co-workers, typical working week, and company culture. Don’t hesitate to negotiate aspects like salary, review dates, benefits, and bonus payments, but be realistic about your bargaining power. If you decide to decline an offer, do so professionally .
Dealing with Rejection
Rejection is a natural part of job hunting. It’s crucial not to dwell on negativity but to learn from each experience. Identify what went well, what could have been better, and what you’ve learned to improve your approach for future applications. Maintaining a positive attitude and continuing your efforts is essential for eventual success.
By understanding and preparing for each stage of the job-hunting cycle, you can significantly increase your chances of finding the job you truly want.
