THINK BEFORE YOU LEAP

Tackle your job search in 2020 with this advice from SEEK

FINDING the ideal new job takes effort but there are simple ways to streamline and organise the process that can lead to success more quickly. Relaunch Me career coach Leah Lambart says before launching into the search, jobseekers need to consider what they really want out of their next role.

Once that has been identified, they are ready to attack the application process from different angles.

KNOW YOURSELF

Jobseekers in 2020 need to communicate to potential employers what they have done in the past and what they want to do in the future, whether it is in a job application or interview.

“Employers want people who know who they are, and who are able to present themselves as attractive employees,” Lambart says. “It’s not the employer’s job to work out what you can do for them.” This will include being able to communicate why they left their last role.

“So be prepared and practise answering this question so it’s convincing,” she says.

LOOK OUTSIDE YOUR COMFORT ZONE

Consider similar roles to the ones previously held, as well as other industries. Search beyond traditional job titles, as these evolve over time – for example, secretary is a term seldom used, while personal assistant now is more common.

Use SEEK to discover new terms and find jobs that align with experience that may not previously have been considered.

USE RESOURCES

Set up job alerts to be emailed when positions are advertised.

“Having jobs that match your search criteria appear in your inbox on a daily basis will ensure that you don’t miss out on suitable opportunities,” Lambart says.

SEEK also has many free templates to help jobseekers, from checklists to interview question tests.

NETWORK

“The more people that know you are looking for a job, the better,” Lambart says.

“Don’t hold back from telling friends and acquaintances that you’re in the job market and what type of work you’re looking for.”

Meet people in areas of interest over lunch or coffee.

“New jobs often come out of these meetings – it’s all about timing,” Lambart says.

Regularly talking with people will also help provide confidence and practice that will bode well for job interviews.

GIVE YOURSELF A BREAK

“Job searching can be an intimidating and impersonal process,” Lambart says.

Stay positive and remember there can be many reasons why a job offer is not forthcoming, ranging from the role being withdrawn to an internal candidate being promoted, or the hiring manager being confused about what they want.

“Try not to take it personally,” she says. “Connect with others going through the same process, seek support from a career coach if you need it, and make sure you take a break from your job search at least one day a week.” THIS ARTICLE FIRST APPEARED ON SEEK CAREER ADVICE