Many people find it daunting to begin the process of searching for new employment. Maybe you don’t know where to begin. Maybe you haven’t looked for a new position in more than 15 years, or maybe you have just become complacent where you are and haven’t thought about looking in a really long time. Whatever your reasons for pursuing a new position, your success now hinges on establishing some guidelines and developing a plan. Your plan will help keep you focused and on track, while also serving as an important guide. Here are my key tips to help you with the process; hopefully this will take some of the uncertainty out of your search:

The getting to know you process. You might be wondering how you come to understand some of your drivers and things that motivate you. Consider taking some tests, including DISC or MBTI. These assessments can provide very valuable information to allow you to understand more about yourself. Reading articles and books, and speaking with friends and colleagues regarding their experiences will also give you a different perspective. The learning process can come from a variety of avenues. Take your time to ensure you know enough about yourself to plan for a change. The planning process will allow you to identify opportunities that you might not have considered. It will also prevent you from spinning your wheels pursuing things that might not be right or a possibility at this time in your career.

Preparing for the search. As you know, you will need strong career documents to launch your search. Even if you have a strong network willing to work for you, you will still be asked for a resume. Your resume should serve as a ‘living’ document. This means that you will need to modify it as you apply for positions or give it to a member of your network. Your resume should highlight the things you have done and how you achieved results. Creating mini stories on your resume will allow you to showcase your talents and what you bring to a new position. Remember, it is not what a company can do for you; but rather, it is what you can do for them that need to come across on your resume. Use the SAR method when drafting your document: Situation, Action, Result. This formula will enable you to tell your mini story. Keep it short and to the point, highlighting the most relevant details of what you did in your role. The examples should provide the reader with key information, including metrics relative to positive outcomes of your efforts.

Create your marketing tools. As part of marketing yourself to a potential employer, you need to know who you are. Some people are more self-aware than others. Evaluate your strengths and areas for improvement. Keeping a list of these things will allow you to capitalize on what you would like to present to a potential hiring manager. More importantly, understanding areas where you are not as strong will provide you with the foundation to either make changes on your own or seek professional / educational assistance or training to improve areas where you need help. Part of knowing yourself also requires that you have knowledge regarding your work values. Are you only interested in a 9-5 job, or are you willing to extend yourself before or after the traditional workday? Recognizing your work ethic will allow you to pursue opportunities that meet with your overall personal and professional needs.

Recruiters and job boards. Now that you have your search documents (resume and cover letter) prepared, you are ready to start your campaign. Identify a few recruiters that operate in your area of specialty and commence a dialogue with them. Recruiters can and should play a role in your search – as should job boards (limited). Conduct research pertaining to the recruiters that have a presence in your industry or area of business. That relationship can and will be an important part of your search process. Job boards should also play a role albeit a limited one. Given the amount of people who apply to big boards, I recommend that you choose smaller niche boards in your area. Your chances of being seen will improve and the likelihood of a company spokesperson or hiring manager reviewing your document will improve. On very big job boards sometimes companies will simply post opportunities to test the market – there might not even be a position available.

Traditional and online networking. Become a member of a local networking group or two to meet new people and establish a presence with people in a supportive environment. Sharing ideas leads to exposure and opportunities – for everyone! The relationships you form can very well lead to new opportunities. Equally important is establishing an online presence. LinkedIN is a very powerful tool where a community of professionals come together to share information. Jobs are also being posted there. A great way to get involved is to post information for other people to read. Through LinkedIN you can join some groups related to your industry / profession and share information and ideas with others.

Refine your presentation and candidacy. The search process is one that needs to be modified on an ongoing basis to ensure that you achieve success. Practice your interviewing skills so you are prepared to answer commonly asked questions. Make sure you review your own background carefully so you can provide information regarding how you completed projects, worked with others, and achieved results. Interview for things – even if you are not interested in the role. The practice will help improve your style and comfort level.

The more prepared you are to handle the search process the quicker you will meet with success. Develop your search and interview strategy, define your accomplishments, and be prepared to sell yourself in a compelling way. Your positive and motivated approach will help keep you focused on attaining your goal!