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Changing career is not easy, it helps to know where to begin. Here are our pointers to get you started.
Take the first step.
- Identify the career options that you think you would really enjoy, not just the ones you know you can do. Don’t limit your ambitions at this stage. If you really want to be a lawyer, or fancy a career in engineering, add them to the list. Then research how others started out in these careers.
- Consider what you’re good at. Start your job search with what you can do. Are you creative? Are you good with numbers? Do you have the gift of the gab? Identifying where your skills lie will guide you towards the jobs you’ll most enjoy.
- Think about the skills you’ve gained. Is there crossover? If so, use this list of skills to identify the types of jobs and industries you are suited to. Focus on your strengths and what really motivates you. What are your unique skills, abilities, and interests?
- Do your research. Many careers may sound exciting when you know very little about them. Make sure you know what’s boring and not so great about the job before you decide whether it is right for you. Research what the job entails, what training you will need, and talk to people already doing the job.
- Take some classes. It is never too late to learn new skills which will help you gain confidence, boost your CV, and give you a whole new outlook.
- Think about the future. Some industries such as energy and technology are likely to have huge demands for jobs in the future. Research where the gaps will be and if it is in an industry that interests you.
Tidy up your CV.
- Get your inspiration from roles that are advertised. Do the skills on your CV match what companies are looking for? Talk to recruiters about what they consider to be a great CV (you can give one of our team a call today on 01279 758855).
- Get some trusted feedback. When you’ve spent ages working on your CV, it is easy to miss typos. If possible, ask a friend to proofread it for you.
- Customise your CV for each role that you apply for. Make sure you emphasise the parts that the person reading it would most be interested in.
Where and how to look.
- Your best bet is to register with a reputable recruiter who can give you free helpful advice. It won’t cost you a thing to use a recruiter to find a job, and they have a finger on the pulse of the job market. They will also be able to introduce you to companies you might not have heard about. Register with RecruitAbility today
Build an online profile.
- Use an online platform where prospective employers can find you. Here are our hints and tips for making a LinkedIn profile that stands out.
- Keep your online profile up to date, ensuring the details match what you have on your current CV. Employers frequently use the internet to look up candidates, don’t get caught out. Make sure that your online profile contains lots of keywords that are relevant to your ideal job. It will make it easier for potential new employers to find you.
- Become an expert in your field. The more people who know you and your work, the more opportunities you will have to make a new contact when looking for a new job. Make contributions on LinkedIn, write an online blog, engage with forums and discussions that interest you. This will help you to expand your network.
Build your professional network.
- Attending professional networking events enables you to build long-term relationships and mutual trust over time with likeminded people in your community who can support you in your professional success. It is also an avenue to exchange ideas and learn from other people’s experience. Networking makes you noticeable and allows you to stand out for your expertise and the skills that you offer, opening the door to new opportunities. Someone in your network may alert you to a new opportunity or refer you to someone in their network that has a job opportunity for you. RecruitAbility hosts a free to attend networking event on the 1st Thursday of every month in Bishop’s Stortford, click here for more information
At the interview
- Have answers prepared for frequently asked questions, such as "Where do you see yourself in five years?" or "What are your strengths and weaknesses?" Rehearse your answers to an audience. Make sure you can express yourself in an articulate fashion by asking a friend to throw likely questions at you.
- Create an ‘elevator pitch’ about who you are and what you do. This is a brief way of introducing yourself, getting across a key point or two. It's called an elevator pitch because it should take roughly the amount of time you'd spend riding an elevator with someone. It’s also useful when you meet new people at a networking event. Get ready to talk about your skills and experience.
- Prior to an interview, be sure to have done your research on the company and your prospective employer who will likely have researched your online profile before the interview. You can do the same, which gives you something to ask them about, showing an interest in their career journey. Finding out as much as you can about your interviewer will give you a head start on other candidates before you’ve even begun your interview.
- Be honest. Be prepared to address any gaps in your employment history, or the reason why you suddenly had to leave your last position. Don’t exaggerate your experience either, many companies will check references and any inconsistencies could lead to them rescinding a job offer.
- Look the part. Dress for the job you want. Presentation can make the difference in whether you are hired.
- Follow up on the interview. A brief courtesy message by email thanking the interviewer for their time will help keep you at the front of the interviewer’s mind.
It may take a while, but the perfect job for you is out there. Hopefully you will find following these steps useful.
Our recruitment consultants are on hand to help and offer advice. Give us a call today on 01279 758 855
Posted on Tuesday Apr 23
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