Your guide to a successful job search

Searching for a new job is hard work, and Hays is here to support you every step of the way with this useful guide.

It’s not uncommon in these hyper-connected times, for the working week to overlap into family life (or vice versa). This makes it increasingly difficult to pursue your individual goals, and scheduling time to do so can often take weeks of planning. Most people give up at the thought of the idea, until some quiet time reveals itself.

That said, if you’re thinking about a career change but don’t have the time to commit to it, then all is not lost. There are some simple steps you can take to free up time, and I’m sharing as many of them as possible in this handy guide.

Job searching effectively at a glance

Reflecting back on my career predictably brings many ‘sliding doors’ moments, where I easily could have ended up on a different path. While there is inevitably serendipity in life, I believe that on the whole, your career often comes down to timing and opportunity. Taking the time to notice and seize these opportunities will reap great rewards. 

Want to make your job search more rewarding? Read on to find out what to do before you begin your job search, and things to consider whilst you’re actively looking for new roles.

Your guide to job searching effectively

Before you begin your job search (passive)

1. Avoid procrastination 

Let’s be honest. Any time spent unfocused is going to affect your chances of finding a new opportunity. So, the best solution is to approach your job search like it’s a professional project. 
Turn off your phone, TV, and tablet before you begin to avoid interruptions. Or, if you’re pushed for time, why not spend your commute or lunch break researching relevant companies and suitable roles? Remember: anywhere other than your work desk is potential research time – so use it.

2. Know what you’re looking for

Never rush into your job search or ‘scattergun’ your applications. This might feel productive because your numbers are high. But a smaller amount of well-considered, detailed applications will increase your chances of landing an interview. 

Before you embark on the job hunt itself, take the time to reflect on your ambitions and where your skills could take you. Consider the following:

• What are your key strengths?
• What kind of role would these strengths best lend themselves to?
• Which applicable industries are doing well and which aren’t?
• Where would you like to be in a few years’ time? 

Knowing exactly what you’re looking for is central to your success. By being clear on your end destination, you can plan a route map to get you there.

You should be realistic about suitable opportunities, but don’t be afraid to dream a little too. Grab a pen and paper, and create a list of goals.

3. Prepare for your job applications

Attractive CVs, cover letters and portfolios are essential for every job seeker. Ensuring these are up-to-scratch takes time, but it’s time worth spending. After all, it’s your shop window, your advertisement, and your opening sales pitch. By having these on-hand, you can share them with employers on the fly, rather than having to ‘get back to someone’.

You can also create a few varied CV and cover letter templates. How many of these you prepare will naturally depend on the scope of your job search. Create a loose CV and cover letter, then tailor them to each job role and employer specifically. 

4. Get networking

This should be a constant consideration for most professionals. By expanding your professional network, you’re opening yourself up to new career opportunities. You may find that when you have more professional connections, more people can recommend new positions. Even asking your network for career advice can help you become a more qualified candidate. Use your connections as a resource to further develop as a professional.

Sidenote: you don’t want your current employer to be aware of your intentions to leave. Keep it casual by quietly asking a contact if they can recommend you an opportunity or employer.

Once you’ve started researching (active)

1. Dedicate time to apply for jobs 

When are you most productive? The average person is most productive during the first two hours after waking up. So try waking up an hour earlier than usual and get job hunting. With so much accessible on a phone now, your commute to and from work, your lunch break, and even cooking dinner can all be opportunities for this.

2. Only chase the ‘ideal’ job roles

Save yourself, and your recruiter, time by only applying for positions that are relevant to your skillset, and which you have a real interest in. Recruiters examine job applications for a living and will realise if you haven’t put much effort into the process. Submitting just a few, well-considered applications will land you a job much quicker than churning out a large number of hurried ones.

3. Keep track of the jobs you apply to

When you're actively looking for a new job, you may send in dozens of applications. Note down which jobs you applied to and when. This way, you won't accidentally apply to a job twice, and you can remember when to follow up with an employer. If you apply for a job and don't hear back from an employer a few weeks past the application deadline, send them an email inquiring about their hiring timeline.

Keep note of which method you used to apply and what sort of responses you received. This will help you figure out which approach works best.

What to remember when job searching 

To wrap up, a successful job search isn’t about sending as many CVs as possible. It’s a combination of preparation, effective job searching techniques, and setting realistic career goals. With these tips in mind, you’re more likely to get your foot in the door and land your dream job.

For more information or to discuss your recruitment needs, please contact your local consultant.