As you begin your job search, look at as many positions and opportunities as possible. The more knowledge you have various prospects, the better prepared you’ll be to make a confident, educated decision about your career.
#1: Look beyond the name
Some job-seekers are seduced by a glamorous company or a fancy job title that might be accompanied by a large salary or appealing benefits and perks. And that’s great for some people, but you need to make sure you’re also considering things beyond that. Will you be happy in that environment? Do you have the necessary skills and will it help you grow? Will this job help you achieve your longer term goals?
#2: Find a good fit for you
Don’t just think about what pays the most or which job seems the most secure. Ideally, you want to find a job that helps you feel like you’re contributing something meaningful to the company and to the world. You need something that will provide a nurturing environment with opportunities for personal growth, professional development and advancement at the same time it allows you to achieve a work-life balance,
Know what drives you. Look for clues everywhere to find what stirs your passion and excites your imagination. Focus on the things you love to do and don’t settle for anything that doesn’t challenge and energize you.
#3: Have a back-up plan
There’s always a chance that a job you fall in love with won’t work out. Perhaps the company loses their funding for your salary or you find you can’t get along with a boss or co-worker. In that case, you want to be ready to have a Plan B. Even if another job you considered or applied for has now been snatched up, you at least have a greater sense of the job market and have probably interviewed and networked enough that you can reach out to a hiring manager or valuable contact for help.
#4: It gives you a goal
When you’re more aware of the types of jobs in your desired industry you come across jobs beyond your qualifications, jobs you’re not quite skilled or experienced enough for yet. Even if you apply and don’t get offered that position, now you know what you need to do to get it next time. Consider your next job to be a stepping stone to that job you’re not quite qualified for yet.
Keep researching and looking at similar postings to look for trends. What are hiring companies looking for? How many years of experience? What certifications or degrees? Start to prepare for that next level.
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