Before you set out in the search for a new job, there are a few points you must clarify in your own mind to ensure you make the most effective move possible. You may find it helpful to talk the following points through with a close friend, family or career advisor.
Your career goals You are far more likely to achieve what you want if you have clearly defined goals. Clarifying your career objectives is difficult but essential - once you are in control of your mind the rest is so much easier.
Don't forget, however, that you will need to balance your career goals with those of your private life. Whilst your career objectives may include factors such as re-numeration, training, and experience, you will need to take into account issues outside of work, such as location, travel time and cost, time with friends and family, antisocial working hours and childcare costs.
These are just some of the areas you will to consider when assessing your goals. If you want to be a director in ten years time you will have to be willing to put work before pleasure, though at the same time you should expect benefits befitting your sacrifices.
- Short term
You need to understand thoroughly why you want to move on from your current occupation and what you expect to gain from your next position. If you do not know what you want to achieve from a job you will be in danger of under achieving in several areas.
- Long term goals
It is very important to have strong idea of where you want to be in ten years time. Over the next decade you can achieve all, or nothing. You are far more likely to achieve what you want if you have clearly defined goals.
Think also about how you are going to reach your ten-year goal. Although there are no set rules, it is advised that you think in terms of the next three career moves that will get you to where you want to be.
Once we have long and short term goals it is possible to:
- Identify the most relevant details of your experience and qualifications
- Identify the most suitable format for your CV
- Draw up a highly targeted CV and covering letter
- Identify the most suitable roles for which to apply
- Come across as being focused and professional in an interview situation
- Assess any job offers that arise. If you accept a job without clarifying your goals you may be searching again in the near future.
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