New Year, new job (and of course new me) - we've heard it all before... I don't know about you, but I think that you should start making changes as soon as you can. No need to wait for the calendars to change only to get a 'fresh start'.
Nevertheless, during the new year, many people set goals for themselves. For example, a new career. In fact, the months of January and February are a great time for job seekers. If you're wondering why it's because the end of the year can be slow when it comes to hiring. Budgets are maxed out and companies are planning to hire new employees early next year.
However, if you've been on a job hunt before you know it's daunting. So, here are a few tips on how to stay positive and motivated.
New Year, New Job and Healthy Habits for Effective Job Search
Be SMART
I'm talking about the SMART goal model of course. Use SMART objectives when looking for your new dream position to help keep you on track.
Ask yourself questions about that dream position. What is it? Which sector or industry do you want to work in? Are you willing to relocate?
To achieve your goal, you need to know how much progress you've made. In this case, how many CVs and applications in a week will you send? How much time will you spend networking?
Here you need to know the difference between 'the dream' and the 'dream role'. There are some things you can't entirely control. Like how many successful interviews and job offers you'll get. What you can control, however, is how much time, effort and work you'll put in to get there.
Okay, so your dream position is to become a SEO of a company but you have very little work experience? Well, chances are you won't get that role. In most industries, you start at an entry-level position and work your way up. Understand what you are able to do right now to get to where you want to be in 10 years.
If you want to stay on track, you should set yourself deadlines. And if you can't control when you'll get a job, work to the deadlines you can. Saying you'll find your dream role in a month is less effective than saying you'll send out 10 CVs a week.
Keep Up
If you started the first objective of the SMART model you'll know what industry or sector you're interested in. The next step is staying up to date with any big industry news. Just because you're not working doesn't mean you should fall behind and miss any opportunities. Maybe there's a new company opening up and looking for a brand new team? Plus, your interviewers might ask a question where you can showcase how involved in and passionate you are about that sector.
Get Your New Job
Are you an early morning, afternoon or evening person? I'm talking about productivity. Every person is different and can focus best at specific times in the day. What's more, there are certain tasks that you will focus on better during the day than say in the evening. For example, maybe you prefer correcting a CV or drafting up a cover letter in the late afternoon and going through job ads in the morning? Figure out what works for you and stay consistent.
It Takes Time and You Should Too
Looking for a job, especially if it's after a long break or in a new career, takes time. So, don't forget to take time for yourself and relax and enjoy yourself when you can. Talk to others and reach out for help if you need to. Do the things that make you happy and make you feel good. A positive mind will drive positive results!
Now you can implement these tips in your next job hunt. Another extra piece of advice is if you want to save some time you can get vacancies sent into your inbox. All you need to do is complete some details and wait while you enjoy some extra free time! Good luck!