An unexpected call from a headhunter when you reached your potential in your current job, offering a chance for advancement and a higher salary, is an ideal situation for any manager. But, just like most ideals, such situations are rare. So what happens when you reach a turning point in your career and it’s you who must actively search for a job, sometimes after ending cooperation with the last employer? Is this a risk or an opportunity?
MAKE THE MOST OF THIS MOMENT
If you currently don’t have any professional commitments, this is the perfect time to reflect on your career and carefully plan your next steps, including the job search process. This process is time-consuming, so being free from work obligations can be an advantage.
DEFINE YOUR VALUE AND WHAT SETS YOU APART
Before taking any action, take a step back and consider the actual value you can bring to an employer. What can you offer that would be so compelling that a company couldn’t resist having? Also, consider which values are unique – provided only by you. Write it all down carefully. That is the foundation upon which you will build all further steps.
CREATE EFFECTIVE COMMUNICATION TOOLS
Some experts say that a good CV tells the story of your career. But that’s not entirely true. A strong CV is, above all, a communication tool that highlights your unique value to a potential employer. It should tell a compelling story that ensures you get invited to the recruitment process. That’s why it’s essential to first define your strengths and distinguishing features and then construct a CV that effectively showcases them. While you can do this independently, it’s also worth considering working with an expert who can help refine them and craft a strong CV.
Next, optimize your LinkedIn profile – this is the best platform for professional networking and job searching nowadays. But your CV and LinkedIn profile aren’t the only communication tools. Be creative! Maybe eye-catching business cards? Or a short online presentation that you can share with your contacts. Also, ensure that everything available online about you aligns with your values, distinguishing features, and professional story.
BUILD A STRONG NETWORK
Richard Bolles writes in his book “What Color is Your Parachute?” that when searching for a job, even your tiler should know about it. While this shouldn’t be taken literally, the key takeaway is that having a strong network is crucial. It’s through your contacts that information about your search will reach potential employers. LinkedIn is the most effective platform for building these relationships nowadays, but don’t overlook networking events and industry conferences. Step out of your comfort zone and engage with people. Contrary to what you may think, they are waiting for your initiative to connect.
INFORM YOUR NETWORK ABOUT YOUR VALUES AND READINESS FOR NEW CHALLENGES
The more extensive the network of contacts, the greater the chances of finding a job. But there’s a catch – you must actively communicate your readiness for new challenges and, most importantly, the value you bring to potential employers. You already have the right communication tools – your CV, LinkedIn profile, and a brief bio – so use them. Of course, be moderate to avoid being perceived as a spammer. More often than not, the real challenge isn’t excessive activity, but overcoming personal hesitation and stepping outside your comfort zone.
BE PATIENT
In my experience, high-level recruitment processes, such as director positions, typically take 6 to 8 months. Be prepared for this, both mentally and financially. Some processes simply cannot be rushed. It’s essential to stay patient and not let frustration set in when time passes, and there’s still no offer. If impatience starts creeping in, take it as a sign to keep calm and continue working consistently toward your goal.
DON’T JUMP AT THE FIRST OFFER
Finally, a critical piece of advice: it is not worth jumping at the first offer if it raises doubts from the start or involves high risks. Just as an unbelievable shopping deal can sometimes be a scam, a job opportunity that seems too good to be true may have a hidden agenda It is worth taking your time to carefully evaluate each offer and choose an offer and an employer whose values align with yours. This approach will maximize your chances of securing a long-term role and a strong relationship.
