Secrets to Finding a New Job in the New Decade
Work is one of those unavoidable parts of life, and being stuck in a job in which you don’t find any joy can have a serious impact on your entire well-being.
With a brand new decade ahead of us, maybe you’re ready for a change. You’ve already spent hours online updating your work experience and streamlining your career objectives.
You’ve also spent time offline at networking events hoping to connect with potential employers.
Technology has redefined how many industries operate, which means that how you transition to a new job has also changed.
Whether you’re looking to change careers completely or simply need some fresh inspiration during your job hunt, we’ve compiled a list of some secret tips that will open you up to a completely new set of opportunities.
Think outside of the box
Sometimes pinpointing the company you want to work for is more important than the positions that are currently available on the market.
In the next decade, we will see the rise of more startups and medium-size companies that combine a great combination of work culture, with the ability to grow internally.
Instead of spending all of your time applying for open positions, think about places where you want to work.
These are companies that fit your long term career goals or are leaders in an industry into which you want to transition.
Focus on building relationships with people who are already at these places and try to find a way in, even if you initially have to start at a different position than you’d want.
All companies are looking for star employees and once you’re working there and doing a great job, you can then try to switch to a different role either vertical or that is a higher position.
Build a personal brand
In the next decade, personal brands will be a huge asset during the search for a new job.
Companies have to work harder than ever on their image and social footprint to be able to reach and retain customers.
When you show you are an expert in your field and create consistent content, you become more attractive to many of the places you dream of working at.
Consider creating a blog or uploading articles discussing trends and news related to your industry.
Use your Social Media to share your opinions, and utilize trending hashtags or common hashtags in your field to show up on the recruiter’s search.
You could even use social media to connect with potential companies that interest you.
When they see your personal brand is aligned with their work culture, plus you have in-depth knowledge, they will want to hire you.
Make your resume active and lean
We live in an attention economy. According to a recent study, the average recruiter looks at a resume for only six seconds.
So how do you stand out in such a short period of time? These days companies want to see directly how your skill set fits into the job or position they are looking to fill.
Take a critical look at your resume and make sure it showcases not only where you’ve worked, but also what you did there.
Focus on showing action and how you created growth. Companies want to know you can deliver results, so make sure this isn’t buried inside of too much text.
Also, tailor your resume directly for the position you’re applying for. This means that some work experience may need to move around to highlight things that apply to companies you’re targeting.
Go beyond your network
People in your industry and your collegiate network can be helpful during your job search, but your next job lead could come from a place that you least expect.
Find ways to naturally share your job search with friends, it could be at the dog park or during a golf match.
Most people are always willing to help or provide advice when approached in the right way. Be smart about how you ask, and you might uncover an unexpected path to your next dream job.
Don’t forget to follow up
It’s not a no until you get an actual no. Make sure you follow up with potential employers after about two weeks.
People are busy and sometimes things get overlooked because life gets in the way. Most companies will also appreciate the initiative as this is a quality that can be incredibly helpful in the workplace.
If you’re looking for a professional upgrade during the next decade, now is the time to take action.
It’s a long road and finding the right role can take some time, but if you stay focused on your goals and try some non-traditional routes you’ll be printing new business cards before you know it.
By Fernando Ortiz-Barbachano
President and CEO of Barbachano International (BIP),
The Human Capital Solutions leader in Mexico, Latin America, and the USA, offering high-impact executive search, executive coaching, and outplacement.
About Barbachano International
Barbachano International (BIP) is the premier executive search and leadership advisory firm in the Americas (USA, Mexico, Latin America, & Canada) with a focus on diversity and multicultural target markets. Outplacement and Executive Coaching services are provided by our sister allied company Challenger Gray & Christmas. Since 1992, BIP and its affiliates have impacted the profitability of over 50% of Fortune 500 Companies. BIP has been recognized by Forbes as Americas’ Best Executive Search Firms and currently ranks #27 and #3 on the West Coast. Headquartered in San Diego, California with satellite offices in Florida and Mexico. As member-owners of NPAworldwide Recruitment Network, we are supported by partner offices in over 50 countries.