Entering the job market for the first time, after a break, or even when you’ve been let go, is a daunting task. There are so many different job titles and fields to go into that the variety will make your head spin. Starting is the hardest step of the process. Knowing what kind of job to look for may bring a sense of dread because of the anxiety that comes with finding an ideal position. Once you have a target to aim for, the process becomes a lot easier.
Where to search for jobs
Websites reign supreme; they are the prime location for finding new employment opportunities, the days of scouring through the classifieds section of the newspaper are over. It’s easier than ever to find job postings online. Top destinations for job hunters include Indeed, Linkedin, and Monster, while there are hundreds of others helping people find jobs in specialized fields.
Networking is another way to find job opportunities. Once you’ve chosen the field that you want to go into, speak to people already working in that field. Get a sense of what it’s going to be like and ask them about their experiences. This will help you get a sense of what you’re getting yourself into and help you meet others that work in your chosen field. Creating contacts can lead them to refer you to future employment opportunities and increases your visibility in your field.
Creating a new network is great; look for new opportunities in your current group of friends, acquaintances, and family. Whether they’re in the field you’re currently researching or not, they may know someone else who is connected and will increase the chances of finding a job or creating a new contact for the future.
Finding the right opportunity
After finally deciding the field you want to go into, now you have to look for the right job in that field. That means sifting through descriptions of various jobs with differing job titles. The job that you’re looking for may not match the title or description that you thought it did. Searching until you finally find something that matches can be time-consuming.
The right job opportunity should be closely aligned with your skills and expertise; it must also align your temperament and working style. Before you know what kind of job you’re looking for, try some introspection to know what the abilities that you’re bringing to the table are and what specific jobs you can handle. Find areas you’re focused on and see how they align with your skills and values.
Decisions, decisions
After laying out all of your opportunities, go with the ones that seem like the best fit. Figuring out what the right fit may be is key. Descriptions range from a list of responsibilities to something that looks like an essay telling you what the company’s ideal candidate may be. Carefully read through these and decide whether this position will be the right fit for you. Research, the company that you will be applying to and look to see if it’s somewhere that’s a match and whether it reflects your values and expertise.
Now that you’ve carefully selected the jobs you want to apply for, the ball is in your court. You will not receive a follow-up from every company you apply to, but you will now have a better sense of where to look for work and how you will fit in your desired field of work. Starting a new task can be difficult, but taking the first step toward looking for the right job is key.
Takeaway
Taking your first steps to search for a new job will be difficult, but it helps to stay focused. You’re not going to find the job you’re looking for on day one, but you will be better suited for a job if you know what you’re looking for. Scouring through hundreds of different job postings is the first step toward starting the career that you always wanted.
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