5️⃣ tips to set-up your job search for success!

Read time: 3 minutes

Starting the year is the perfect time to reflect on your career, and for many, that means considering a new job.

Whether you’re feeling stuck in your current role or looking for a new challenge, the idea of a fresh start can be exciting and a little scary too, right?

Well, success starts with a plan and the right support.

So before making big moves, take time to pause, plan, and set yourself up for success!

Here are 5️⃣ tips to help you prepare for your job search:

1. Assess your current situation

Take a moment to reflect on why you’re considering leaving your current role.  

Here are some questions to guide your reflection:  

• What moments or achievements made you feel proud? 💪  

  
  

• What parts of your role do you enjoy and want to continue? ✨  

  
  

• What situations drained your energy, and how can you avoid them? 🚫  

  
  

• Are there issues you can address with your employer before leaving? 💬  

  
  

• Are you ready for the changes that come with a new role, culture, and colleagues? 🤝  

  
  

By understanding what’s driving you and assessing the positives and challenges of your current role, you’ll gain the clarity needed for the next step.

2. Get clear on what you really want

A new job is more than just the title or salary - it’s about finding the right fit for you!  

Here’s how you can break it down:  

• Work environment: consider company size, pace, autonomy, and if you prefer onsite, remote, or hybrid work. 🏢

  
  

• Company culture: what kind of people and culture inspire you? What company values or mission inspire you? 🌟

  
  

• Skills & strengths: what are you great at? What do you enjoy doing? 💪

  
  

• Compensation: what salary and benefits do you feel are right for you? 💰

  
  

• Location: where do you want to be? Are you open to travel or relocation?📍

Take time to write down your priorities and the non-negotiables.

3. Research the job market

Researching the job market before diving in will help you understand what’s out there in terms of roles, salaries, and responsibilities.

Here are a few tips to get started:

• Get out there: attend industry events and meetups to see what’s happening in your field and start networking. 🤝  

  
  

• Benchmark: look at job postings for similar roles to understand responsibilities, required skills, and amount of applicants. It’ll help you see what employers want and how you can stand out. 💡  

  
  

• Tap into your network: ask friends, ex-colleagues, or anyone in similar roles about their job-hunting experience - what worked, what didn’t. People love sharing advice, and you might learn something. ✨  

  
  

This step is your reality-check moment, a chance to ask yourself “Is what I’m looking for realistic?”

If not, it's time to refine your priorities and adjust your expectations.

4. Update your resume

Now you’re all set to update your CV and start applying! 💪

Here’s how to make your application stand out:  

• Tell your story: your CV is your story. Share your experience, skills, and achievements in a way that highlights your journey and makes the recruiter want to know more.  

  
  

• Match the role: look closely at the job description and use keywords that mirror it. Show how your accomplishments align with what the role needs.  

  
  

• Show the numbers: quantify your achievements wherever you can. Remember, a CV is not a list of responsibilities, but a showcase of your impact.

  
  

• Keep it clear and concise: Recruiters have limited time, so keep your CV easy to read and straight to the point. Aim for no more than two pages.  

  
  

And don’t forget the cover letter! 💌

Make it personal and tailored to the company, showing why you’re genuinely excited about the role.  

5. Prepare for interviews

Landing interviews is an exciting step, but remember, preparation is key - this isn’t improv, after all!

Here's how to start prepping:  

• Do your research: take some time to explore the company’s mission, values, and recent projects. Showing you know what they do can really set you apart.  

  
  

• Practice common questions: rehearse your answers to typical interview questions to feel more confident.  

  
  

• Showcase your skills: think of a few specific examples that highlight your experience and achievements that would resonate with the role expectations.

  
  

You can as well find in this previous edition some tips to ace interviews.

And lastly, be patient!

The job search process can take time, so don't rush into accepting the first offer that comes your way if it doesn't feel like the right fit.

Trust that the right opportunity will come along in due time! 💪

Actions for today:

• Set-up a saved search on LinkedIn for a list of your target roles and start benchmarking.

  
  

• Connect with 3 people to discuss their job-hunting experience for this type of role.

  
  

• Request a CV review to ensure it's best-in-class and helps you stand out!