How do I find a new job?
You’ve realized that it’s time to look for a job. Maybe you don’t have the growth path you hoped for or you’re simply ready for a new challenge. Maybe you’re getting cues, subtle or not-so-subtle, from your manager that an organizational change is coming. Whatever the reason is, knowing when “it’s time” is a big step and I’m glad you’re here. Now, let’s get you prepped and ready for what to do next.
Self Inventory. You’ll want to make a list of what you have and a list of what you desire. What you have means professional experiences (including things like projects and initiatives you worked on), your skills, and areas of expertise. What’s desired is all about the type of work you want to do, the job you want to be in, or the company you want to work for. The key here is to create logical and cohesive alignment between what you have and what you desire for the greatest level of clarity (and, ultimately, success) in your search.
Let’s quickly touch on what “logical and cohesive alignment” means exactly. Take all your skills and experiences and distill them into core themes that are transferrable into other, adjacent areas of work. For example:
Two years as an Account Manager does not need to equal another Account Management role.
2. USE YOUR NETWORK! If it feels like I’m screaming this, it’s because I am. I can’t stress how important this is and how we need to put those feelings of shame, embarrassment, or whatever else is telling us we shouldn’t to the side. If you know someone at a Company you’re interested in or know someone who knows someone, reach out. What’s the worst thing that can happen? Pro tip: A lot of companies offer employees a bonus when they hire a candidate they referred. Win win!
3. Apply. As much as using your network is important, so is good, old-fashioned job applications. Recruiters do look at inbound applicants all the time. How do you stand out? Apply early, make sure your resume is easy to read and engaging, and be sure you are qualified for the role (see Self Inventory). Most mainstream job search tools allow you to set alerts when a certain role or Company is hiring. Do it! By applying early, you’re increasing the chance that your resume is at the top of the stack.
4. Stay organized. Track where you’ve applied, where you are in the interview process, and who you’ve spoken with. Job hunting can be overwhelming, particularly when you are interviewing for a number of roles at the same time. It’s important to keep the details straight. I like to maintain a simple tracker on google sheets.
5. Ask for feedback. Rejection sucks, especially when it’s a role we’re excited about. And it’s perfectly acceptable to marinate in the disappointment for a second. At the same time, it’s important to do two things. The first is to be gracious, despite the disappointment. Good recruiters will remember you if a better suited role comes up, so continue to be kind, cordial, and appreciative for the opportunity. The second is to ask for feedback. Every company has a different point of view on this; some embrace it when asked, while others steer away. Personally, I’m an advocate of the former and think it’s important for companies to help candidates understand why the decision was made and also create an opportunity for growth. Pro tip: When you email the recruiter to request feedback, ask if they’d be open to jumping on a quick 10 minute call to discuss. Some are more comfortable with this route than providing feedback in writing.
You know it’s time and now you’ve got your to-do list. Let the job hunt begin!
