Looking for a job but don’t know where to start? We can help with that.
There’s a lot to consider when starting a job search. Beyond thinking about which websites to check out and updating your LinkedIn profile, we sat down with our Talent Acquisition Team Lead, Anjana to get her advice on how to get started and find the career of your dreams.
How can you know if you’re ready to make your next career move?
It can depend on where you’re at. Unhappiness at work is one obvious indication, but stop to think about what you’re unhappy about. If there’s a misalignment with your values, that is a deal breaker.
But I would start with looking for feedback and what other opportunities there might be at your current company that you could consider for your next move. If you start feeling like a move is in your future, look to network internally first. You might be feeling frustrated, but channel that energy into positive action that’s constructive. Maybe it’s time to have some serious career development conversations, network and meet with others in your company – look inward first.
Should you always be looking for a job opportunity, at least passively?
I think there’s value in keeping an eye out for trends and opportunities in the market. Why? Because even if you love your job, you should vet that in context with what’s happening outside of your work. There might be new opportunities and positions that would be a great fit for you today or down the road. The opportunity to move somewhere greatly increases with how you can maintain relationships and connections with your network. Keep those connections going.
Where should you start when you’re ready to make a move?
Research! If you have a job in mind, start looking at job descriptions online and research companies that interest you. You can start with LinkedIn, professional associations, meet up groups and online chat forums to learn more about possible roles and companies. Get out there.
My resume needs some help. What are 3 easy things to change right off the bat?
How can I use LinkedIn when I’m job searching?
How can I reach out to network?
If you’re reaching out to network, don’t lead with asking about a specific job. Instead you could approach someone by expressing that you’re interested in learning about their career path and how they got to where they are today. Make it even more approachable by asking for a quick 15 minute coffee. It’s all about how you position it. And make it reciprocal. Ask if there’s anything you can do to help them. And then follow through.
I know I don’t want a new job right now, but I think I will in a year or so. How can I prepare today?
Think about your overarching goal and how to break that down further into action items. It might be people you want to meet, information you want to learn, things you should tackle as part of self-development, and companies you want to learn about.
By breaking down your overarching goal into smaller milestones, you’ll create measureable, actionable items.
How many jobs should I apply for?
It can depend. It’s sort of like dating! The larger you cast the net, the greater the chance you might find a connection. But if you cast your net too far, you will dilute the quality of the leads.
What if I feel I’m not 100% qualified? Should I still apply?
Apply if you can describe why you are qualified in a cover letter. We’re people, we’re unique. Don’t worry about fitting 100% into the prefect box. Be ready to describe how you will be the best fit for it.
Face your insecurities. Ask yourself why you’re uncertain; don’t hesitate to confront those insecurities in the cover letter or the interview. So you can answer those questions for the person who is interviewing you.
And lastly, be courageous. Know who you are. Think about how you can illustrate how you will get there and you’ll find success.
Good luck!
Interested in making the move to Coast Capital?
You know we had to get our pitch in there. Check out what we can offer you and what life is really like working with us. It’s a pretty great place to work if we do say so ourselves.
