I understand that there are very few things more frustrating and possibly scary than a job search, BUT – it doesn’t have to feel that way. I’ve included a few of my personal favourite tips to make sure your job search is as painless and successful as possible. This can be applicable for you if you are in the midst of transitioning careers or if you don’t have a job currently.

1. Don’t Settle. No matter how many times you get knocked down, don’t lower your standards for just any opportunity.

Of course, if you are struggling financially and need an income ASAP to pay the rent, this is an exception. But, if you can maintain stability while holding off, it is worth it to wait. Finding a job is a full-time job in itself, just without the pay, so you don’t want to settle into a new role just to start the search all over again. There are times when taking a new experience could be the boost you need to make your next steps, but for the most part, it is worth it to work until you are confident in your next move. One of the most disappointing feelings is being unsettled when taking a new job, rather than excited and proud. Why put in so much work and effort and quit before you make it to where you want to be? As far as your resources can stand it, don’t settle.

‍2. Apply to everything, and take every interview

Just as much as you don’t want to settle, it is still worth it to try for every opening you could consider. You never know what a company might be looking for at any given time, and even if the job description doesn’t seem like a perfect match, you could learn more through actually talking to the team and finding out more. And ultimately, interviews don’t come easily, so if there is any chance to take one, even just for practice, do it. You never know where a single conversation might lead!

3. Know what you’re looking for, and try to create it

Even if your dream company, or just a company that you would love to work for, doesn’t have any current job listings, it is a great idea to show them why they need you and how they could create a space to utilise you. Especially if you have a special certification, unique skill, or expert niche, companies may need for you and just not know it yet. To be successful at this type of cold emailing though, you need to know specifically what you bring, why they need it, and how you are going to be successful and thus, make them successful. If done right, this technique could not only get you noticed but land you in the role of your dreams. Just because a job doesn’t currently exist, doesn’t mean you can’t create it and convince them to be yours. 

4. Maintain a positive attitude, take breaks, know your worth

Don’t let the frustrations of job-searching get to you, and try to remember that you will end up in the place you are meant to be. As long as you are working hard, you are where you need to be, and will make progress soon. If the discouragement is getting to you, take a break and do what you can to protect your self-confidence. You have to know how great you are to show companies your worth, so losing self-confidence will hurt your efforts. Remind yourself how great you are, and that whoever hires you will be beyond lucky and don’t settle until they know it, too.

‍If you feel like you need extra confidence in your job search or help reframing your mind-set, connect with me today to see how I can support you in taking that next step towards landing your dream role.

Love,

Catherine x