job searchHave you been made redundant and are now looking for a new challenge? Do you dream of fulfilling your lifelong career ambition or perhaps you want to move on to a more prominent role with more responsibility? Whatever your reasons, if you’re looking to change careers this new year but you’re unsure where to start, here are seven tips to help you in your job search.

1. Identify what you want from your new career

Is it the same job but in a different industry or field? A different position but in the same industry? Or is it a different job in a completely separate area? Wow, that was a lot to get your head around, right?! If you are itching for a new job but you can’t quite put your finger on what you want, these are the questions you should be asking yourself. Once you have the answers, you have clarity on what it is you’re looking for. That way, you can narrow your job search right down and avoid wasting precious time and energy.

2. Do your research

Get started by browsing job profiles to find out what the entry requirements are and what your chosen career involves. You can find out more about what a job involves on the National Careers Service website.

Keep an eye out for open days or events aimed at career changes, so you can gain knowledge and talk with recruiters. If you find positions available at a company you long to work for but the roles aren’t quite right, contact them anyway and explain what it is that you’re looking for. Nothing may come of this right away, however, it shows you have initiative, passion and determination, so who knows where it may lead in the future?

3. Set some goals

You have a good idea what you want your new career to be and you’ve researched what’s out there. Now it’s time to get organised and plan for success! Do you need to obtain any qualifications or go on a training course to help you achieve your dream job? Would it be helpful to gain some work experience or complete some volunteering to hone the skills you’ll need in your next venture? The Do IT website offers lots of volunteering opportunities that may be suitable for you.

Identify all the steps you need to take and set some timescales. If you feel daunted by any of your goals because they have particularly long-time frames or just seem too big to accomplish, break them down into ‘stepping-stone’ goals. For example, if you need to gain a qualification, your stepping-stone goals could be:

  • Identify training provider by…
  • Apply for course by…
  • Begin the course by…
  • Complete course by…

Don’t forget that one of your goals should be updating your CV! For more information on how to make your CV stand out from the crowd, why not take a look at this previous blog post?

job search

4. Be patient

Many workplaces are nothing like they were this time last year and nobody can tell when things will settle down and return to ‘normal’. As a result, opportunities in your area or job field may be limited. Try not to be disheartened. Keep checking what’s out there and do your best to be patient (although I know this isn’t always easy!).

5. Stand out!

Carry out an audit of your professional social media accounts such as LinkedIn. Is it working for you or against you? Does it convey your personality and your greatest attributes? Perhaps you could revise sections to help you stand out from the crowd or inform people of your intention to change career.

Let your actions do the talking. By this, I mean, if you say you’re going to do something for someone, do it. If you’ve got an online meeting with a recruitment consultant or you’re attending an online event, log in early and be ready to hit the ground running. These simple actions can speak volumes when it comes to making a great first impression and sticking in people’s minds for all the right reasons.

6. Improve your networks

If you find that you have time on your hands at the moment, use it wisely and get networking! The great thing about connecting with people is that you can present the whole you – something that a CV or cover letter simply can’t do. Another advantage is that you may discover roles or companies you had absolutely no idea about.  

7. Hire a coach to help you with your job search

If you need assistance in figuring out what career you want to move into or in securing your next role, then working with a coach could be the answer. Specialising in career transitions, and with over ten years’ experience in HR and training, I would love to help you as you embark on your exciting journey. If you would like help with your job search ore more nformation about the services I offer, why not book a free 30-minute phone consultation?

You can also email me at tanya@vidacoaching.co.uk or text/phone me on +44 (0) 7729 673 291. I currently coach via Zoom or Skype, so am still able to work with my clients despite current restrictions.