Before You Start Looking For A Job - What You Should Do
By Canadajobs.com StaffBefore you even send out a resume or start looking through the want ads, there are some things you should consider that will help you save time and effort in your job search.
What Do You Want?
It's easy to get sidetracked by fancy job titles and attractive salaries. You must decide what kind of work you would like to do. Do you want a job in the field you are in now or do you want to try your hand at something different. Finding out what you really want is the key to finding a fulfilling job. Taking some time to figure that out before you job search will probably save you a lot of headaches later. If you have no idea what you want, how will you ever look for it or find it?
What Do You Need?
What sort of hours do you want to work? Are you looking for a temporary or a permanent job? Do you want to work part time or full time? What salary or wage is the minimum you will require? Does your new job need to be close to home? What's the longest commute you will accept? By figuring out what you need, you'll know where to put your efforts when you start looking for work.
LifeStyle Changes?
Are you ready for the change in lifestyle that your new job will bring you? Do you have daycare arrangements made if you are a new mother returning to the workforce? Do you have the support of your family? By having your family on board, you can make the transition to a new job easier. You should consider that many new jobs bring changes, whether they be changes in schedule, income, or location. Before you start looking for work, ensure that you have the support you will need.
Have You Got A Strategy?
How long do you think it will take to find a job? How long can you afford to be unemployed? You should have some idea of your employment goals. If you want to have a job in the next two weeks, you need to act quickly. You'll want to list all the possible places you could apply, make a list of networking possibilities, get your resume ready, and start applying right away.
Will you be handling your own job search or do you want to have a recruiting firm assist you? If you are currently employed, how will you fit your job search activities into your current job? How much notice do you need to give your current employer? These are all things that if sorted out before your job search, can help make things easier for you later. Deciding on a strategy will help you avoid wasted time and job search effort.
A job search takes time and effort. By being organized and planning ahead before you start looking for a job, you can help make the process easier for yourself.
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