So you've decided it's time to find a new job. Whether looking for that next step in your career, a bigger salary or a new challenge, everyone faces the same challenges and questions when it's time to look for work.
Let's demystify the job search process with this handy step-by-step guide to help you find the perfect new role.
1. decide on what type of job you want
If you’ve already decided it’s time for a new job and know what you’re looking for, congratulations! That’s the first step sorted. However, this step is for you if you start your job search.
Take the time to consider the type of job you want. This might sound like a no-brainer, but take the time to consider your career goals and what will make you happy in a job.
The COVID-19 pandemic and the enforced time at home allowed most people to reflect on what matters to them in a job, including whether working from home is really for you.
before you rush head first into your job search, consider the “must-haves” in a role and take the time to ask yourself the following questions:
- Do you want to work in the office, remotely from home, or a bit of both (hybrid)?
- Consider the importance of the location of the office too.
- Do you want to work as a permanent employee, an hourly-rate contractor, or part-time or full-time hours?
- What type of businesses would you like to work for?
- A small not-for-profit with a clear community purpose or a large business with financial security and plenty of career development opportunities?
- Is there an industry you’re particularly passionate about - like education, technology, financial services, construction, and engineering?
- What job title/role do you want to apply for?
A clear understanding of what you want in a new job will help you avoid roles you might be unhappy with in the long run. It will also help you to articulate to your future employer why you’ve applied for the position and why you find working for their business appealing.
2. assess your career situation - do you have the necessary skills and experience?
Once you have worked out precisely what you want in your next job, you need to be sure that you have the right experience and skills to give yourself the best chance to be considered for the role.
To do this, review the job description if available in the job advertisement or search for a similar role online.
If you find that your skills do not match the role, don't be discouraged - with time and perseverance, there are several ways you can achieve your career goals, such as:
- upskill by enrolling in a training course
- volunteer to gain experience
- sign up for a traineeship/internship
- find a career mentor in the industry
Working with a recruitment consultant to identify a realistic career pathway to your dream job.
3. write a winning resume
One of the most challenging aspects of looking for a new job is working out how to write a quality resume, or CV, that will help you stand out from the crowd.
A well-written, eye-catching CV can mean the difference between landing your dream job or settling for something second best. Read our article 'how to write a winning resume to learn more.
4. write personalised cover letters
A cover letter written specifically for every role you apply for gives you the perfect opportunity to summarise what makes you stand out as the ideal applicant for the job.
Here you can highlight to your potential employer what makes you an excellent fit for the role and their company. It's also a chance to showcase your personality and give the hiring manager a taste of who you are and what's important to you.
5. search and apply for jobs
Once you have updated your resume and created your cover letter template, the next step is to search and apply for jobs. There are many ways to find the job you want.
From looking at job boards like SEEK, talking to people in your personal and professional network and targeting employers, you want to work for directly by visiting their careers page on their website.
This is also an excellent opportunity to work with a specialist recruitment agency like Randstad, which can connect you directly with a great employer.
Browse the jobs we are recruiting for now, or reach out to one of our specialist recruitment consultants here.
6. partner with a specialist recruitment consultant
To increase your chances of finding a job, consider registering with a specialist recruitment agency like Randstad and building a relationship with an expert recruitment consultant in your field.
Working with a specialist recruitment agency like Randstad is a great way to find your next job. Randstad's specialist recruitment consultants are experts in their industry and can share invaluable knowledge and insights to help you secure your next role.
They will also help you uncover what you are looking for in a role and then match you with a job and employer to help you achieve your career goals.
7. take stock of your brand
Before you start your job search, it's a great idea to consider your brand and how it translates online.
consider the following:
- Is your LinkedIn profile up to date?
- Does it match what you have on your CV?
- Are your Facebook and Instagram privacy settings up-to-date?
With technology at the fingertips of most hiring managers, you should know that a prospective employer's first job is to Google your name, check out your Linkedin profile and find you on Facebook.
You want to put your best foot forward, so keep that in mind as you curate your online presence.
8. brush up on your interview skills
Does the mere thought of attending an interview start your palms sweating and fill you with a sense of dread?
Don't panic - this is normal. Being interviewed doesn't need to be a scary experience, and with our interview tips and hints, we'll have you feeling confident and ready to shine in no time!
