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Have you been made redundant? Been out of work for a while? We can understandably get discouraged when we find ourselves in this position. Once out of work, you can start to panic and be overwhelmed by the pressures of no job. However, in some ways this situation could be the best thing that has happened to you in ages. You have the opportunity to make this experience work for you. Your next job could be the job that's right for you, even more so than your previous one. And if your previous job certainly wasn't one that was right for you, think of this as a chance to start afresh and find a job that's more suitable. Here are five top tips for finding that job:
1. Don't start rushing the job search
Even if you've been out of work for a while and have started worrying that you'll never find a job, don't be tempted to start rushing. You're actually less likely to find a job if excess haste makes your job search approach sloppy and unthinking. Take some time to reflect, think and evaluate. Make a plan. Identify the things that are important to you. Apply for jobs that align with these priorities and values. Your enthusiasm at the prospect of landing such a role will shine through to the recruiter. Don't just rush out there, taking all of two minutes to fill in a form for a job you don't really want. You're more likely to get rejections this way, which can be demoralizing.
2. Look at your options creatively
How do you find vacancies you can express enthusiasm for? Read up on areas that interest you. Get out and about and get experimenting. Talk to friends, relatives, anyone you can learn from. Think about your strengths and skills. Do not neglect your passions. All this is really important when searching for a job that both you and the job's recruiter will know you'll enjoy and excel at.
3. Make your own decisions
You do not need to follow or mirror what your friends and peers may be doing. A job that is right for your friend may not be right for you. If you apply for such a role, a good recruiter will be able to pick up on the fact that it's not suited to you.
4. Do not give in to fear
Almost all of us are afraid of something. We might be afraid of failing or not being able to pay the bills. This is completely understandable, but if we give in to our fears, we end up being driven by them. It can cloud our judgement and prevent us from thinking about our job search clearly and smartly. Be aware of your fears for sure. It is no good to ignore them or avoid them. However, do not let them end up guiding you in the wrong direction. Being out of work can be a great time to confront your fears and deal with them.
5. Stay Positive
This can be easier said than done. If you are angry, bruised or frustrated-whatever your low feelings may be-that's ok, but don't dwell on them. For sure, it can be tough not to be in work but see it as something you will overcome. You can take control of the situation and be the one who decides what next.
Where you end up, how you handle the challenge, and where you will ultimately be is all up to you. Being made redundant or having lost a job can be the beginning not the end. It is in your hands to make the most of this and to turn it into an amazing opportunity. If you are positive and you keep moving forwards, there will be great progress in the right direction and you can land that dream job!
Nisa Chitakasem is founder of Position Ignition, a modern day, very personal careers advisory service for professionals. Whether you are looking for a new career direction, changing careers, need help progressing in your current company or are about to become a mum, we can help. For more information visit: http://www.positionignition.com and read our blog here: http://www.positionignition.com/blog
