YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED
WHAT’S YOUR TOP ADVICE FOR SECURING A NEW JOB THIS NEW YEAR?
DARREN BUCHANAN MANAGING DIRECTOR, HAYS QUEENSLAND
You’ll need to provide hiring managers with evidence that you performed your previous jobs well. It is your achievements and results that count, so add success metrics and examples to your CV and online professional profile as proof. By proving your strengths, you’ll bring your successes front and centre. For example, rather than writing you are “innovative”, write that you “designed and delivered a new online sales booking system that increased sales by 15 per cent in the first six months”. By providing explicit examples of successes, you prove that you have the ability to succeed in a new role.
SINEAD HOURIGAN BRISBANE DIRECTOR, ROBERT WALTERS
Firstly, you should spend some time reflecting on what you have enjoyed most about your current job, what your greatest achievements have been in the role and what your frustrations were. You need to spend the time on this so that you don’t end up leaving one role for something almost identical. Once you have identified what it is you are looking for, then it’s time to start the search. Definitely spend the time on your resume and ensure that it is clean, accurate and professional. Then, get your alerts set up on your favourite job search engines and keep an eye on the news sites for suitable adverts.
JULIE FORD SENIOR EXECUTIVE CONSULTANT, MCARTHUR
First, know exactly what you want to do. The New Year is a great time to reevaluate your life. No job search will be successful if you take a scattergun approach. If possible, search for a job that matches your passions or interests and is aligned with your skills, qualifications and experience. Identify companies that you aspire to work with and take it from there. Develop your network, ask for referrals and do research. If you are looking in a completely new field, be prepared that it may take time. Above all, stay focused on what you want to do, but keep an open mind.
DR NERIDA HILLBERG DIRECTOR OF PSYCHOLOGY, FERRIS MANAGEMENT CONSULTANTS
I recommend the 3 P’s: perseverance, patience, and positivity. Securing a new role is a stressful and time-consuming process. Keeping an optimistic perspective is key. Use your networks. A referral or recommendation can go a long way in progressing you to a shortlist. Include quantifiable achievements in your CV rather than a list of responsibilities. Proofread all written correspondence carefully to make sure your email inquiries, CV, and covering letters are all error-free.