Build A Better Career

Recently I wrote a series of articles, breaking down the job hunting process and looking in detail, at the specific elements of it. Here I build on those articles and offer 7 quick fire tips which should dramatically reduce the amount of time it takes you to land your next job.

1. Don’t wait till you start looking for a job, before you start looking.

Be up to date with your industry and the conditions of your employment environment all the time. Make this part of your job description in every job you hold. It could save you weeks when it comes time to find a job.

3. Ensure Your CV Is Up To Date – Always

Sometimes you just need to be ready to pounce for that dream job. If your resume is always up to date and you are always familiar with its contents, you will be ready. Update it at least twice a year with new skills and experience. You’ll then be ready for those unexpected offers which occasionally present themselves.

3. Recognise Networking Opportunities Every Day

Keep in touch with all your contacts in the industry. This includes workmates, employers, contacts at employment agencies, contacts in similar companies etc. You never know what other people will be doing tomorrow, or what opportunities they may have for you.

4. Always Go To That Interview – Even When You Aren’t Interested.

The problem with interviews is that it requires a skill. You are selling yourself. Most interviews follow similar patterns, even though the questions are never the same. If you attend all interviews you are invited to, whether you want the job or not, you will be practising this very important skill. You need to have this skill practised and perfected for when the perfect job comes up. You do not want to miss that perfect job because of poor interviewing skills. Practise makes perfect so go to every interview you are invited to.

5. Keep a diary of your experiences.

Job hunting is an evolutionary process. You need to modify your approach to every unique job and as your skills improve. A great tool to help you with this is to diarise your experiences, noting where you did well and where you think you could have done better. Really make an effort to learn from your experiences so each job you go for is a better effort than the last.

6. If You Are Out Of Work, You Still Have A Full Time Job

Yes that is correct, finding employment is now your full time, 9 – 5 job. Get up at the same time you would if your were employed and spend a full working day, every day, job hunting. It will keep you sharp, which is important when you visit prospective employers.

7. Maintain Your Focus

You know what type of job you are looking for, don’t be distracted by other offers or ideas. Keep your eyes firmly set on the task at hand and the job you are seeking.

Its never easy to find, win and accept the right job for the next stage of your career. I hope these tips help though. Good luck.

With decades as a successful business proprietor and employer, Gnifrus Urquart offers nothing but quality career tips and business ideas

categories: jobs,careers,employment,interviews,resume,employment,business,economy,family