career advice

Jobseeker's checklist

> Career Advice Index

If you're starting to dread going into the office, maybe it's time to start looking for a new one. So, if you're looking to take your skills and experience to pastures new, follow our advice and get a head start in finding the right role for you.

 

Do:

  • Use SecretarialCareers' job search to find out about the latest vacancies
  • Where do you want to be in the long-term? Consider what jobs will help you to get there
  • Consider a new sector. How are your skills transferable?
  • What skills and experience do you need to reach your goal? What skills are in demand?
  • Do some research. Who are the major employers who might help you to achieve your goal? It is increasingly unlikely that you will remain with the same employer for the next 20 years.

 

In the short-term, assess what you want from your next job. Consider:

  • Salary
  • Increased responsibility
  • Opportunities for training and development
  • More time with your family, friends, hobbies
  • Continue living in the same area
  • Move to another part of the country
  • Money may not be your motivation, but work out what you need to cover any extra costs such as travel, childcare, loss of benefits such as pension, or a company car.
  • Think about your work/life balance. Do you really want to be the boss's boss if it means giving up leisure time, long holidays or seeing your kids during the week? It is becoming more common to want to balance your home and work responsibilities. See our flexible working advice.

Don't:

  • Wait until you resign or lose a job before you work out your future career plan. Start now so you're ready when the time comes.
  • Apply for jobs without a career plan or goal in mind. You are wasting your own time and that of potential employers.

Staying motivated

Hunting for the perfect job can be a difficult, lengthy process, and it's important not to let the knock-backs get you down.

Top motivation boosters:

  • Set goals and take action.
  • Keep networking. Keep in touch with old contacts and make the effort to meet new people.
  • Don't be disheartened if you don't get the first, second or third job you have been interviewed for. Instead of feeling rejected, treat the process as a learning experience. Ask for feedback and think about what you can change next time.
  • Set up an email address and have jobs emailed to you. It is a real boost having suitable jobs arriving in your inbox.
  • Let employers look for you, by registering your CV on SecretarialCareers.co.uk.
  • Sign up with recruitment consultants. Consultants know about the current job market and are skilled at looking at how your skills and abilities might fit jobs you haven't previously thought of. In addition, they have access to many jobs you won't see advertised. Good consultants are also skilled at keeping you uplifted and motivated.
  • Keep an open mind. If your current job bores you, is it time to try something new?
  • If your skills are rusty get some training.
  • Treat your job hunt like any other professional project. Set yourself deadlines and use your time effectively.
  • Take exercise. Your brain needs oxygenated blood to work well.
  • Take regular breaks - keep up your hobbies and recreational activities to maintain a balance between work and play.