During these unprecedented times we have to consider some strategies that will enable you to successfully secure your next role. Check out some of our pointers below:
HAVE A ROUTINE
A routine will help with the monotony of working and search for roles from home. Waking up at the same time, exercising, stretching, and eating right help to form a calm mind. This in turn will naturally lead to a positive outlook compounding the rate of success. Consider keeping a journal to track your progress over time. Keep a to-do-list, you can use software such as Trello to track tasks and applications.
"We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence then is not an act, but a habit" - Aristotle
EVALUATE YOUR SKILLS
Be honest and write down your strengths and weaknesses. The skills you have and the skills you would like to develop. This will be useful when forming your CV. Try and be as granular as possible to enable you to focus on areas of growth. Ask other people for honest feedback and take a look at job posts to see where your skills overlap.
EDUCATE YOURSELF
Education will be incredibly useful during these times and upskilling will show potential employers your dedication to your personal development and the value you can bring. We have a blog with a number of great free sources of education - https://legalasset.co.uk/blog/useful-sources-of-free-education
UPDATE YOUR CV
Update your CV to include your latest experience taking into account modern CV formatting techniques. Ideally your CV should be 2 pages, concise and focused on results. For example, Always above billable targets by over 18% for the last two years.
We provide a CV review service at Legal Asset, feel free to get in touch for some advice.
WORK ON YOUR ONLINE PRESENCE
We recommend conducting an audit of your online profiles, especially LinkedIn. This should be up to date and clearly state your skills and that you are actively seeking work. There are features within LinkedIn that show recruiters that you are available. Ensure other social media platforms are presented professionally, with suitable posts and pictures to highlight your skills.
Join groups and share relevant information to further enhance your profile. This will keep you in the loop and you may be contacted by a suitable employer.
NETWORK
Build your network by sending out invitations on LinkedIn and attending online networking groups. Send a simple however personalised introductory message and follow their updates. Use this information to provide value informing them of something that may be of interest to them and build the relationship. A recent study found that only 80% of jobs are actively posted, growing your network is key to be the first in line for the ideal position. https://www.forbes.com/sites/jacquelynsmith/2013/04/17/7-things-you-probably-didnt-know-about-your-job-search/#71ba6c443811
CREATE A SYSTEM
Track your applications, contacts and who you message by creating a spreadsheet. Log the dates, CV sent, contact name, position, email address etc. This will help you to follow up and ensure you are applying efficiently. As mentioned above use Trello and set specific times and targets. For example, you will complete at least 5 applications per week, research between 10 - 12 etc.
APPLY AND BE PATIENT
With current economic conditions and the changes to work, you will need to be patient. A lot of hiring teams will need more time to review applications and liaise with their colleagues before they will be able to reply.
STAY POSITIVE
We live in unprecedented times, try and stay positive. Consider using this time for personal growth and things that make you genuinely happy. The news can be negative, it may be wise to take breaks from the screen for some head space.
If you are seeking a role or would like advice with your current career aspirations, get in touch. You can email us at [email protected].
