Starting your job search from scratch always feels daunting, even if you have been through the process several times before. At mselect, we want to make your next job search as easy as possible, so we've created a set of guides to help you land your dream job.
On this page, we will discuss the importance of a well-thought-out job search strategy and how to set achievable goals.
Why is a job search strategy important?
We all want a dream job, something challenging and rewarding. The difference between dreaming about and getting it is how you plan and execute your job search - the strategy.
The best job search strategy is one that hones in on
● defining your skill set
● tailoring your CV, cover letter and portfolio
● and creating the right opportunities.
Your 8-step job search strategy
Let's start by looking at the outline of that plan to help you build a strategy for your job search.
Every good job search should start with a strategy that looks something like this:
1. Assessing your skill set and transferable skills
The best place to start your job search is to start with what you can offer employers - your skills. Understanding your skill set will help you showcase your expertise on your CV and attract the right job match.
If you are looking to switch career paths, understanding your transferable skills will help make that transition easier for two reasons: first, you can spot your knowledge gaps and work on them; second, it shows employers what you can bring to a new job.
Take some time to read our complete guide to assessing your skill strengths and weaknesses to get started.
2. Identifying your career goals
Next is identifying your career goals - what you want from a job or career path over the long term. Unfortunately, most people miss this step, but we don't want that for you. We want you to realise your full potential.
Why is this step crucial for you and your employer? Happy employees are said to be 13% more productive and much more healthy. So, a happier you is what you want to aim for in your career goal planning.
Here's our complete guide to identifying your career goals and preferences.
3. Working on new skills
Whether you are looking for a similar or different career path, the reality is that best practices at your industry or job level will have changed -particularly if you have been in your last position for some time. The best way to open yourself to new opportunities on the job market is to update your skills.
Reading and research is a great place to start, as are vocational courses. At mselect, we offer a wide range of international standard courses to help our candidates gain the knowledge and experience they need to improve their job search.
4. Updating your CV and portfolio
Once you've understood your career goals and familiarised yourself with the skills you can offer, it's time to update your CV and portfolio (if you need one).
Job search sites, recruiting agents, and even social job sites like LinkedIn will require an updated CV, as will your prospective employer.
The best CV showcases your relevant skills, accomplishments and job impact. Here's our complete guide to CV writing to help you get started or update a current resume.
Portfolios aren't necessary for every job, but where they are, they need to be current, so spend some time developing projects that reflect the best of what you've achieved and projects that look at where you want to go with your career. Remember - just like your cover letter, your portfolio should be tailored to the job you are applying for.
5. Assessing the job market
Spend time researching your industry, particularly the jobs on offer and pay. Doing this will give you plenty of insight into what you can expect in today's market for your current position and intended job. Your insights will help you position your job search and negotiate offers more successfully.
When researching, also look into what's happening in your industry. What are people talking about? Are there trends or challenges you should be aware of? The answers to these questions may mirror employer concerns or opportunities, all of which you can discuss in cover letters and interviews.
6. Exploring job search websites and job boards
Whether you have used job search websites and job boards before, familiarising yourself with what's available is always helpful.
When looking, consider which job sites align with your criteria. Do they understand your industry? Do they attract the types of companies you want to work for? These are essential questions to ask.
Here at mselect, we work with global brands across sectors that we have spent a lot of time understanding. Please check out our job board while you are here.
7. Working with recruiting agents
Having contact with your recruiting agents is a bonus in your job search. They can help guide you through applications and negotiations. They can also find job matches you weren't aware of. How? Because they have industry contacts.
A great recruiting agency should also offer guidance on skill development, helping you understand the skills you'll need for the job you want. That's why we created our course offer - to help you reach your full potential and land that dream job.
8. Self promotion
Promoting yourself is one of the most complex parts of job hunting. It takes time and energy, but we promise you it is worth it!
Where do you start?
Here's a handy list of things to consider as part of your networking effort:
● Referrals - reach out to your existing network about your job search and see if they have connections worth exploring.
● Networking events - in-person or online networking events can be helpful, particularly for more senior jobs.
● Job fairs - These can be a great way to meet employers face-to-face, learn what they offer and determine whether you might be a good fit.
● Cold calling - While pitching to companies you'd like to work for might take some time, it can be a good lesson in self-promotion and elevator pitch writing. Both skills will be helpful in yourinterviews.
● Social media - Sites like LinkedIn can be beneficial for making new industry connections, giving you a bigger network to showcase your skills.
How to keep going during your job search
Every job search is tiring, and you won't be alone in feeling that. To give yourself the best chance at keeping up with your strategy, we have some considerations for you.
● Manage your time - Designate specific times for your job search, but be prepared for the unexpected.
● Set realistic expectations - Don't over-stretch yourself; remember to challenge what you do and keep things interesting.
● Reward your motivation - Celebrate wins, seek support from your network, friends and family, and be prepared to adjust and reframe your process.
● Stay organised - Track your job hunt, carefully file your connection notes and keep a notebook handy for ideas.
● Focus on continuous improvements - Your job search strategy should always be open to the lessons you've learnt.
● Don't get distracted by the jobs you don't get - Use every application and interview as a learning experience for the next one.
How long does a job search take?
The duration of your job search will vary based on:
● Industry and role - Some industries have higher demand, leading to quicker placements.
● Economics - The pace of job listing will depend on company and social economics. In more affluent times, more employee movement and job openings always exist.
● Geographic location - Job markets differ by region, affecting the availability of positions.
● Networking efforts - Active networking can expedite the job search by creating valuable connections.
● And ultimately, your strategy - How are you working towards finding your dream job?
Our job search top tip: Look for quality and not quantity
It is very easy to apply for jobs, but focusing on quality over quantity makes you more likely to find the best opportunities. Following our 8-step job search strategy will open up those opportunities for you.
Setting job search goals the SMART way
Setting a SMART job search goal is crucial if you want to manage and achieve your plans. SMART goals are specific, measurable, achievable, realistic and timely.
The best job search goals are measurable and trackable. You need to know what it means to achieve your goal and how you will measure progress. If the goal is not numerically measurable, you must think creatively about other ways to track your progress.
Your job search goal also needs to be achievable. It should be something you can attain with the resources, knowledge, and skills you have. You should set intermediate goals focusing on getting what you need first if you need more resources, knowledge, and abilities.
Remember you are looking for a quality job hunt, so don't pressure yourself to unrealistic timeframes. Instead, follow the process and reward where you get a win.
Good luck, and remember to check out our job board and courses to see where we can help!