ASK THE EXPERT – TOP TIPS AS YOU LOOK FOR A NEW JOB

I want to look for a new job but I’m not sure where to start – what advice would you give?

Looking for a new job can be quite a challenge and requires time, effort and lot of research to ensure that you make the right decision. At the start of a new year in particular, a number of people decide that it is time to move roles – this can make the market more competitive. Before starting your search, there are few things that you should consider which will help you find your perfect role.

Why do you want to leave your current job?

It is vital that you try and pin down the reasons why you want to look for a new role. Is there something in your current role or company that is making you unhappy? Also try to work out if this feeling of dissatisfaction has been building for some time or if it is a recent development, perhaps stemming from a return to work after a holiday or break.

Often a break from the normal work routine can make us re-evaluate our choices or can highlight some areas of unhappiness which have been bubbling under the surface for a while but you haven’t had time to think about properly. Before looking at new roles, think about whether the things that you are unhappy about can be addressed by your current employer – for example, if the daily commute is having a negative impact is there flexibility in your working hours or options to work from home? If you are frustrated about a lack of progression opportunities, are there any upcoming projects which would give you exposure to new areas of responsibility?

If, after carefully examining your options, you can’t see any plausible solutions, then it may be time to look elsewhere.

Looking for a new job takes time

Once you have made the decision to actively search for a new role, don’t just rush into applying for any vacancy which sparks a little bit of interest. It is important to consider how this potential move could impact future career choices and how it may enable you to reach your longer-term goals.

Carefully consider what you want to gain and – just as importantly – what you don’t want from your next role. Once you get swept up in the excitement of a new offer it can be very easy to overlook some details which could put you right back where you started; by identifying what your lines in the sand will be, it will enable you to address any concerns during the recruitment process.

Research, research, research…

You want to arm yourself with as much information as you possibly can. Ensure you have a clear understanding of the skills and experience needed for the type of roles you are interested in and identify any areas where you need additional training or exposure to before you start applying.

As well as considering the role you would ideally like, take time to identify suitable companies and organisations that will be a good cultural fit. For example, if you thrive in a busy office environment, you are probably not best suited to a team that is primarily home-based.

Engage with a specialist recruitment consultant

Whilst there will be a number of vacancies posted on job boards and recruitment sites which you will be able to access yourself, it is worth remembering that there will be a vast number of other potential applicants all vying for the same roles. A specialist recruitment consultant that is focused solely on your industry sector (and quite often concentrating on roles at your level of experience) will have the inside track on the most attractive opportunities currently available, some of which will never make it to stage of being advertised publicly.

A good specialist will also be able to examine your career to date to give you a steer on the best routes to achieving your longer-term ambitions as well as offer a wealth of advice on how to champion your skills and experience to make you stand out to a future employer.

Take a targeted approach

Try to avoid the temptation to apply for lots and lots of vacancies simply because they look vaguely like a role you could do or be interested in. To stand the best chance of success, each application should be tailored specifically to the requirements outlined in the job role and description; this takes time so you should be looking to focus your efforts on a handful to key opportunities at a time – aim for quality not quantity.

Don’t lose sight of the end goal

Finding a new job can be a very time-consuming process; you might hit lucky and secure the perfect opportunity from your first application but more often or not you may find yourself going through the application and interview process several times before you achieve success.

Experiencing rejection can be demoralising but ensure that you get feedback on why you didn’t make the interview shortlist or get the final nod so you can learn and focus on improving your next application. Also, don’t be swayed into accepting an opportunity that isn’t right for you – think back to why you wanted to change roles in the first place and ensure that any move that you make is a sound one.

Good luck!

Sharp Consultancy specialises in the recruitment of temporary, interim and permanent finance and accountancy professionals. With offices in Leeds and Sheffield our highly experienced team of consultants recruit for positions throughout Yorkshire and beyond. CONTACT US today to find out more.

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