Embarking on a new career is an exciting time full of possibilities. But often, one of the most daunting parts of finding your next job comes at the beginning of the search with the question, “Where do I start?” With a little courage and confidence, sifting through job postings can turn from overwhelming to productive. You never know what fulfilling profession might be approaching. Here are some practical steps to help you kick start the quest for your new career.
- Identify companies that you want to work for. While websites like Indeed.com and Craigslist are terrific posting boards to search through, it can also pay off to go directly to organizations that you want to work for. Brainstorm a list of ten local organizations that you believe in and would be interested in working with. Then, research their websites to find job postings. These will often be listed under a careers page. You might find the perfect job that wouldn’t be discovered on a busy classifieds page.
Bonus tip: City government websites can be an excellent source for local jobs of all kinds.
- Set simple goals. An important part of any big hunt is to break things down into actionable steps. Setting simple goals for each day can help clarify what work needs to be accomplished in order to find the right job. Choose realistic goals such as identifying five potential postings each day or submitting three applications per day. Meeting these mini-goals will empower you to find your next job.
- Attend career fairs. Want an efficient way to connect with multiple employers in one place? Bring copies of your resume and a confident smile to a local job fair. Career events and professional meetings are often hosted by colleges, charities and other organizations. Carry multiple copies of your polished resume to share with prospective employers at the event. According to Forbes Magazine, job events are excellent places mingle with companies that are actively seeking new employees. Be on the look out for opportunities to follow up, meet again or gain new contacts and referrals.
- Patience can pay off. It’s easy to feel hurried during a job search. Rather than rushing to apply for positions that sound uninteresting and may not be an ideal fit for you, take time to find the right job openings. Waiting for a good fit will take patience, but applying for the right jobs will boost your confidence and increase chances for success. And in the end, waiting for the right position will result in a rewarding new career.
Always remember to remain persistent. Keeping a positive attitude will help carry you through the process of hunting for a new job. With the right goals and job searching tools, you can take the leap to a fulfilling career.
