Are you ready to move on? 7 steps for anyone considering a career switch
You've chosen to make a career move. Even before your first interview, there are a number of things you can do to help you prepare for a job change. Our checklist for changing jobs will guide you in preparing for a seamless transition.
- Make a schedule
When it comes to changing jobs, you must have a solid plan.
Divide your job search into manageable steps, such as research, selection, applications, and interview preparation, and assign a realistic timeline to each. Determine what you'll need to accomplish at each step - for example, you'll need your CV ready for the application stage, you’ll have to be prepared and have done your research about the organisation you are targeting.
- Boost your online visibility
It's normal to suppose that potential employers will look into your social media and internet profiles as part of the screening process in this day and age. If you're considering changing employment, you should consider improving your online presence. This includes tailoring your profiles to the requirements of the job you seek, particularly for your personal website and LinkedIn page.
- Talk to employees and recruiters
Social networks can help you find contacts which whom you'll be able to exchange information, allowing you to connect with employees and recruiters directly. You may also get important information on recruiting statistics and patterns (where workers come from and go to), annual company growth, essential employee skills and competencies, and job listings by digging around on the firm's page.
A professional recruiter may be a gold mine of beneficial information about anything from wage expectations to skill needs to job-seeking advice, thanks to their in-depth understanding of your industry and recruiting trends.
- Keep your skillset up to date
Make sure you're up to date on industry trends, regulatory developments, and technology advancements, among other things. Determine a few critical sources like magazines or newsletters that you can rely on to keep you up to date, and make it a priority to read them on a regular basis. Learn something new, use informational and educational online resources. Attend professional webinars and check industry news sites and career webpages on a daily basis to remain up to date on the newest developments.
- Make yourself more marketable to employers
Take advantage of possibilities at your current job that will help you stand out to a potential future employer. There are a number of things you may do at your current job that can help you in your job hunt. Work on content and blogs on behalf of your firm to increase your personal brand online. Take advantage of any available training or development opportunities to expand your skill-set. Also, be willing to take on new duties or areas of work that will enhance your resume.
- Make sure your CV is in order
If all else fails and your current employment does not provide opportunities for advancement, it may be time to move on. Make the most of your additional time by organising your résumé and starting the search for a new job that will utilise your abilities and skills.
- Prepare for your next interview
There is no excuse to show up for an interview unprepared. Research and learn about your target company and its product.
Anticipate the Interview Questions. Spend some time considering which skills, accomplishments, and interview responses will most appeal to your interviewers, this will show your enthusiasm for the task as well as your professionalism.
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Check out our resources:
• Sign up for job alerts and upload your CV
• read our comprehensive career development advice
• visit our careers YouTube channel to find videos that cover common career queries.