The Four Keys to a Strategic, Career-Advancing, Job Search

by Suzanne

If you’re looking to make a change, get promoted, or simply find a better job, one that’s more suited to your interests and strengths, you’ll want to take a fresh look at your job search.

As the saying goes, what got you here won’t get you there.

So the same approach you’ve taken in the past won’t give you the access, confidence, and know-how you need to get you the job you truly want at the level that you deserve.

Considering EVERY aspect of the job search, and maximizing your performance in each area, will give you the best outcome possible – the job you truly deserve.

Phase 1: Focus

This is perhaps the most overlooked phase, and the most important. Trying to remain open and flexible for the best option available often backfires. By remaining open and flexible, you are likely watering down your message, or even conveying the wrong message about what you bring to the table.

We only have so many heartbeats left, and if your goal is to spend those heartbeats on something that matters to you, then it’s time to get serious and focus on the jobs that will make your heart sing.  Give yourself some credit and the confidence to know that you can get the job you deserve, and compromise is not a part of that equation.

Phase 2: Professional Branding

With several years experience under your belt, you bring a UNIQUE skillset to the table that is unmatched by almost everyone else. Instead of trying to develop a resume and story that make your background fit into every possible job that you can think of, it’s important to take the time to develop your story, one that highlights your unique combination of skills. Doing so will better position you for the jobs where you can add the most value, and the jobs you will enjoy the most – the kind of job you identified in Phase 1.

Phase 3: Network Management

If you’ve been a client of mine, or taken my Career Confidence course, you know that I’m not a fan of the term “networking”.  Endless hours at career fairs, networking mixers and other events can feel frustrating and like a waste of time.  Strategic network management however, is essential as you grow professionally. You’re probably already doing this to a certain degree now, but if you aren’t intentionally building and managing your network, you’re probably missing out on some great opportunities and friendships.

Phase 4: Interviewing

When you’re getting called for the right interviews and networking with the right people, conveying your story in person, and managing your professional brand through communications becomes critical. Practice, self-awareness, and understanding (along with a few templates and guides) can make a huge difference in helping you succeed.

Your Actionable Next Step

Consider each of the above keys to a successful career advancing job search. Which areas are you most focused on? Which areas need some additional work?

Stay Tuned…

I’ll cover off some tips to help you succeed in each area in the coming posts, so keep an eye on your inbox and set aside time in advance to start making big changes to your job search, so you can experience big changes in your career.

Interested in Coaching?

Working with me one-on-one, will provide you with a step-by-step process to help you land the job you deserve. As a recruiter who has interviewed 1000’s of candidates, and worked with multiple employers, I understand how different companies and hiring managers build their teams, and I can help you access the best opportunities (before they’re posted) and position yourself for the job you deserve.