JOBS SHOULDN’T FEEL STATIC IN TODAY’S THRIVING ECONOMY

1. Do Some Soul Searching

Take time to reflect on your current position and career goals. Are you content with your current position and company? What could be better? What’s your ultimate dream? To help you get started on your soul searching journey, answer the questions below, and be honest with yourself.

• What do you enjoy most about your current position? What could be better?
• How is your work-life balance?
• How does this position impact your family, friends, home life, etc.?
• What is your dream job?
• Do you dread going to work?
• Does your position challenge you?
• Do you receive support from your supervisors?
• Is the company culture something you’re proud to be a part of?
• Where do you see yourself in two years, five years, 10 years?

2. DETERMINE WHAT MATTERS MOST

In a strong market, job seekers have an advantage and can be more selective because companies are competing for top talent. A strong economy provides you with the opportunity to evaluate what matters most in your next position. Employers want to provide job seekers with added benefits, and it’s up to you to determine which of those benefits are most important. 

When you’re evaluating the company, culture, responsibilities, and more, think about what else you seek. Examples of added benefits might include unlimited PTO, employer-paid healthcare, company car, work from home opportunities, and more. Make a list of your most desired added benefits beyond the responsibilities of the job. You spend so much of your life at work; make your next stop on your career journey your best yet.

3. make a list of goals

What did you brainstorm as your goals for the next two, five and 10 years? Focus on each goal and make a list of what actions you need to take to reach those goals. Do you need to learn new skills? Do you need to expand your network? Do you need to invest in professional development opportunities? Make a list of actionable steps that you can take to make your dreams a reality. 

4. Define your career path

Larry recommends having as clear of a path as possible when searching for your next career move. This might include targeting a specific role, industry, company, or area of the country. Though it’s ideal to have a clear path, it’s important to remain flexible and be open to an unexpected direction. Defining a strong career path starts with self-awareness and knowing your goals. If you’re able to be specific with your job search process, you’ll likely have better results.

5. consider working with a recruiter or recruiting firm

Once you have a clear picture of your dream career, it might be time to work with a recruiter or firm that specializes in your field. At Chaloner, for example, Larry’s team works with candidates and companies to find the optimal fit for both parties in the areas of public relations, marketing, investor relations, and mid- to senior-level communications. When Chaloner works with a client company, the Chaloner team begins by understanding the organization’s culture and what needs will be addressed by filling the open position. Chaloner team members then work together to develop, screen and present candidates to the client. By understanding both the client organization and job seekers, Chaloner is able to make meaningful connections and fill the jobs quickly. 

If the job seeker has a clear understanding of what he/she wants, the recruiter is better equipped to make meaningful job connections. 

To learn more about job trends and recruiting, listen to Larry’s podcast interview.