The process of seeking a new job is not a straightforward one and it can take time. According to Cidnye Work at FlexJobs, it takes an average of 3 – 6 months to secure a new job, which can end up being even longer if you have specific requirements that you want satisfied from that post, such as flexibility or hybrid working – which let’s face it most of us do if we are balancing a family around our role.
It can prove increasingly difficult to remain positive throughout this process, however I want to remind you of 5 simple ways you can stay on top of the negative self-talk and feel in control of the process.
1. Set a routine
Decide how much time you are going to commit to your job search each day or week. Put it in your diary and stick to it. This will give you a sense of control and help you create some barriers around the time you spend on it and the way you are using that time.
2. Get clarity on what you are looking for
The biggest mistake I see over and over again from clients is not knowing what they are actually looking for – or looking for the same thing they have always done when in fact they want a change. Take a step back and reflect on what you REALLY want.
Make a list of your non-negotiables (the things that HAVE to be there in the role) and then make a list of the negotiables (the nice-to-haves that you are willing to be flexible about). Come back to this list for every job you look at before you apply.
If you want to make a change to what you do or how you work, put the kettle on and take a look at my FREE download THE 15-MINUTE CAREER CHANGE CHALLENGE where I pose a set of questions to work through to assess all the elements of what you want next.
3. Create conversations
OK, I am going to tentatively use the word ‘network’ here. However you feel about it, your connections and contacts are arguably the most valuable thing you have, and it can be your secret weapon.
I’m not asking you to sign up to a networking event (unless you want to, then go for it!!), but what I am asking you to do is look around you at your friends, family, work colleagues and ex-work colleagues and identify 5 people you can have a chat with about your current and future plans.
Setting up these conversations gives you a forward motion, a variety in your activity and talking to others often sparks thoughts and ideas you wouldn’t have come up with alone.
4. Audit your alerts
If you are feeling exhausted by the inbound alerts coming from job search platforms, go back into your profile and review the information. Perhaps things have changed in what you are looking for, or you want to adapt the frequency of the alerts. Or maybe turn them off for a while to create space for other activities.
5. Get another set of eyes on your CV and LinkedIn profile
It’s really easy to lose the plot when we are just looking at our own CV and LinkedIn profile all day every day. There is huge benefit in getting someone’s objective opinion on it. This is where I come in!
If you want me to work 1 to 1 with you on getting your CV and LinkedIn ready for your next move, I offer 2 x 60-minute 1 to 1 sessions and lifetime access to my online course platform with easy-to-follow video tutorials and invaluable templates. It’s usually £125 (which is incredible value any day of the week), however as a Careering into Motherhood member it is available at JUST £99!!!
You can sign up for the course here or get in touch via my profile page on the Careering into Motherhood platform. Please use CIM2024 at the checkout.
April 1, 2024
