10 Productive Steps To Leverage During Your Job Search
Strive not to be a success, but rather to be of value. Albert Einstein
What are you doing to stay current in the job market? Here are 10 steps to leverage during your job search and get you started on the right path today.
1. Start Today
First of all, start today. Don't wait to start your job search. Whether you are unhappy at your current job or just got laid off, start your job search right away. You never know how long it will take to find your next job.
2. Resume
Always have an updated resume. Even now I hear people who want to quit their job but have not updated their resume in years. In addition, make sure to have an extra set of eyes reviewing your resume. How likely do you think it will be for you to get an interview if your resume doesn't make it past the hiring manager? Having your resume ready will come in handy when applying to jobs or when that perfect job knocks at your door.
3. Re-imagine the Career You Want
Take some time to reflect and even re-imagine your career path. Don't think of the "now" or there's not much out there; the choices are inadequate. Think long term. The job market will get better. What are your career goals? Where do you see yourself in 5 or 10 years. It's always best to begin with the end in mind.
4. Seize Opportunities
So, you want a fulfilling job. What skills can you gain now to get you to where you want to be? The harvest is ripe. There are so many "free" opportunities to leverage now: free-online courses, tutorials, workshops. Take this time to sharpen your skills by aligning your career goals with the resources that will get you on the right path.
5. LinkedIn
This may also be obvious, but it's important to keep your LinkedIn profile current, as well. Make sure that you have a professional photo. Use this time to make professional connections. Let your network know you are looking for new career opportunities. Your network may have a better idea of what is available at their organization that has not even hit their job board. Ask them if they can give you a good recommendation. Getting a recommendation from someone within the organization might give you a leg up on the competition.
6. Informational Interviews
Reach out to people on LinkedIn that are in your "dream career." Ask if you can have a few minutes of their time. This is a great time to seek out informational interviews. Ask them how they got to where they are and what background education they would recommend for the position you would like, as well as the soft and hard skills needed for that position. Informational interviews can be a great way to gather information and get you to where you want to be.
7. Research
Keep up-to-date on career trends in the industry you are excited about and research organizations you are interested in. Don't forget to check out their job openings while you are there!
8. Volunteer
Another great avenue to consider is volunteer opportunities. What a way to show you are passionate about what the organization does! And, guess what? When there is a job opening, you'll be one of the first to know.
9. Clarify Your Non-negotiables
As you take time to reflect and think about your career goals, it's also helpful to write your negotiables and non-negotiables. This step will help you stay focused and on track so that you don't end up back in the "I hate my job" category again.
10. Stay Positive
Most importantly, stay positive and don't give up. It's time to get creative and think outside the box. Update, sharpen, and re-evaluate! Seize the moment and step into the person God created you to be!!!
Commit your actions to the Lord, and your plans will succeed. NLT Proverbs 16:3
