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Plan your job search:
When it comes to finding your dream job, the first step is to figure out what the ‘dream’ actually is. We know that’s much easier said than done, but don’t worry, we’ll help you to figure it out. To start with, you’ve got three broad options:
Staying in the same type of role, in the same industry
Looking for a similar, role but in a different sector
A complete change of role, self-employment, or an alternative lifestyle
Even if you’re planning on staying in the same kind of job, it’s important to be able to recognise the right choice when it comes along. If you’re looking for a career overhaul, it’s even more important to think carefully about your options.
Finding what works for you
We love the fact that everyone we work with is so downright different. You’re a diverse bunch when it comes to your interests, what motivates you, and what work means to you. That’s why you need to think carefully about what makes a role right for you.Consider your broader lifestyle:
Your ideal work-life balance
Your commitments
Your financial requirements
Your preferences
Assessing your options:
We’re big believers that you can do anything you put your mind to, but you do need to give some real thought to what you’re good at, the sort of environment you want to work in, and what you want to achieve in your career.Think about where your strengths lie, and what you’re looking for:
Review your skills, values and work style
Identify your interests (e.g. practical, investigative, artistic, social, or enterprising)
Think about what you want from a role
Landing the right role to suit your lifestyleThere are so many different options out there when it comes to your working pattern. Some of us take comfort in the routine and security of 9-5; others love the freedom and changing pace of something less fixed. But much of the time, it’s your commitments and lifestyle that determine your course.Think about the options open to you:
Permanent (either full or part-time)
Contract (temporary work or fixed-term)
Self-employment (consultancy, interim management, non executive directorships, setting up your own business, buying a business, running a franchise)
Portfolio (several part-time roles, sometimes with self-employment or voluntary work)
Working abroad
Alternative lifestyles (retirement, voluntary work, charity work)
Researching your options:
Once you’ve defined your ideal role and working style, make a wish list of brands you admire and industries that interest you. Think big, but be realistic, including smaller local businesses that could offer a valuable foot in the door. Consider practical elements like how far you’re willing to commute, the cost of travel and whether you’re looking for short-term experience or lasting career opportunities.Then refine your search to learn:
The kind of organisations that need your skills
Which types of roles these companies offer
The different lifestyle and employment options available to you
It’s also worth speaking to experts in your ideal area, so tap your contacts for the real life story.
Knowing where to start:
Knowledge is power, and your job search is no different. We’re incredibly lucky in this day and age to be able to find information on just about anything, from just about anywhere. Consider your main research routes:
A recruitment expert: your local The New Horizon consultant can give you valuable insight into the job market and hiring trends in your region - and where your skills and experience could flourish
Online: whether it’s through specific websites, social media or search engines such as Google, the insight at your fingertips really is to be marvelled at. Think about what you want to achieve from your search, then explore away
Publications and journals: these are great for information and ideas about specific roles. Articles and adverts can also tell you lots about the needs of specific organisations
Professional bodies: trade organisations, institutes and other bodies associated with your area of interest can be a big source of knowledge
Libraries: call us old-school, but libraries are a really useful source of both local and national information
Your personal network: family, friends, colleagues, neighbours, relatives and a whole host of other contacts may have useful information about the options that interest you — but you won’t know until you ask
Evaluating your options:
Making decisions about your future is never easy, but when you’ve really thought about what interests you, what you’re good at, the type of industry you want to work in, and what sort of working pattern suits you, you’ll be able to take that next step with confidence.Weigh up all of your options, think about what’s right for you, and if you need a bit of extra help in looking at the practicalities, The New Horizon is always here to help. Get in touch or drop in for a chat.
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