Five things you should do as a job seeker
Go about your work in a structured way: write down
Randomly sending out your CV without knowing to whom or for what purpose will bring you little long-term success. Make a note of the most important things when you call a recruitment consultant or internal HR manager so that you know exactly which job it is.
I, with a history as an HR consultant, can tell you that it doesn't come across well when a candidate doesn't know what position he/she is applying for.
In the distant past, when I was looking for a job myself, I had the habit of keeping track of every sent application in an Excel file.
In several columns I noted the following: the name of the position I applied for (by e-mail or via LinkedIn), the contract type, the URL link to the job description, the company website (if known), the name of the recruitment company (if any) and the date on which I sent my application.
Every time I got a phone call from a recruiter I only had to open my Excel document and I knew exactly what it was about.
So be structured because the search for the right position is a full-time job, so it is best to handle it that way.
Inform your network
I can't stress it enough: your acquaintances and network are more important than ever when you are looking for a new job. Make sure people know you! Put on your LinkedIn profile that you are actively looking and make sure you check "looking for new opportunities".
Let most of your friends, former colleagues and recruiters know that you are available (again) on the job market. Express yourself in plain language so your network knows exactly what you are looking for.
Sometimes it can be enough to be in the right place at the right time, or to have the right conversation with the right person by chance.
Take training courses or online courses
Take one or more courses to reorient yourself or sharpen your skills. Not only will this improve your profile, it will also show motivation and willingness on your part.
Here in Belgium, there are several possibilities to take free training courses as well as coaching and career guidance via e.g. Actiris, LeForem or VDAB. Take advantage of them!
If you think that your Dutch, French or English could use some refreshment, you can turn to the above mentioned agencies. It's no big secret that being multilingual opens many more doors.
Enrich your experience
If you are looking for a job and you can afford it, you could opt for voluntary work or work that pays little. You can also choose to carry out various short interim assignments in order to gain (diverse) experience before you commit yourself to a permanent job.
Use your time as efficiently as possible because that also shows motivation and drive.
Take timely breaks
Just as it is important to be busy and stay motivated, it is also important to take the time to relax every now and then. After all, your quest has a higher chance of failing when you're under stress and/or have negative feelings.
Don't forget to take care of yourself: eat balanced meals, get a breath of fresh air every now and then, do sports, spend time with your friends, etc. The secret to life is keeping a good balance in such things.
Can you name one passion or hobby that you haven't really taken the time to pursue? Do you still want to launch that one blog, get into an NGO, become a wedding photographer or organize events?
You now have the opportunity to spend some of your time on this.
Make sure that next to that intensive job search, you also schedule activities that give you energy and satisfaction. That way you will stay healthy during the process.
What things would you like to add to this list? What things are important to you to do during your job search? I am curious to hear your reactions! Let me know through our Axis Facebook page or our Axis LinkedIn profile.
