Without fail at the beginning of each new year, I am approached by dozens of people telling me it’s time for a change and they are ready to move into a new job. Many view a new job as the fresh start they have been in need of to reach the personal and professional goals they hope to achieve. More often than not, most people are unsure of where to start or what they really want to do next.
Like any major decision, you must be prepared going into your job search with a clear understanding of what you want in your next role and, as important, why you are looking to leave your current position. This is a big decision and you need to commit yourself to the process. Following these key steps will help you decide if it is time to make a move and how to be the best you possible during the process.
1) Take time to write a Pros and Cons list on your current position. Be honest with your reasons and don’t downplay the pros. It’s easy to allow the negatives to outweigh the positives but you must know the Pros of your current position so you can ensure the things that make you happy will be available to you in a new role.
2) Determine what you want. Do not go into an interview or apply for a job without knowing exactly what your salary expectations are and what you are willing to do in your new position. As we all know, job descriptions are an introduction and don’t always include the full details on what it will take for you to be successful in a new job.
3) Are you really ready to make a move? Many feel the urge to search for a new job only to realize they are really not interested in making a switch or as unhappy as they thought in their current position. Don’t waste your time or any other company’s time by applying for and interviewing for a position you have no intention of taking.
4) Are you prepared to set yourself apart? Resumes with spelling and grammatical errors or inconsistencies are often given little to no consideration. If you aren’t willing to take the time to have a proper resume that is your introduction, how dedicated will you be to being an exceptional employee? Know what you have done and be prepared to share your successes with specifics. You are your biggest fan so be prepared to explain what you have done that qualifies you for the position you are interviewing for.
5) Do you have enough information on the new position to really know if this is the job for you? Don’t just read the job description and assume you know what will be expected of you. Research the company and the position as thoroughly as possible. Why is the position open? Is this a new position or what happened to the person who was last in this role? What are the long term goals of the company and how do those impact the position you are applying for. You have to interview for 3-5 years down the road, not just for today.
Making the move into a new position can be a very stressful time. Prepare yourself for a lengthy process that won’t always go the way you want. Be sure you are setting realistic salary expectations and applying for jobs that you are not only qualified for but that you are truly interested in.
If you still need help and want an objective opinion, call me and I’ll be happy to help!