Whether you’ve in need of a career change or are returning to work after a break, securing your dream job can be the first step to reaching your goals.
Of course, entering the job market can be a daunting task, especially if it’s been a while since you’ve had to apply for a position.
Wherever you are in your job search, there are steps that you can take to impress potential employers.
Here are just five fantastic tips for securing a place in the career you’ve always dreamed of.
1. Update Your CV
If you’ve been in the same career for years, or even if you’ve been out of work for a while, then your CV is probably out of date.
Make sure to add in any relevant accomplishments from more recent years; this includes both at work and any volunteering or qualifications.
And, if you’ve been out of work for a while – as a stay-at-home parent, for example – try to fill these gaps with the positive experiences that you’ve gained during this time. After all, the skills you pick up as a parent can still be transferable to your career.
2. Learn a New Skill
Developing new skills can be a fantastic way to set yourself apart from your peers who may be applying for the same role.
For example, you could use a service such as Duolingo to teach yourself a new language. Depending on your industry, being fluent in a second language could help you to appeal to an employer, making you a more versatile hire.
3. Upgrade Your Qualifications
If you’re looking to grow your career within your existing industry, then you might find you’ve already reached as high on the ladder as you can go with your existing qualifications.
Of course, not all of us can afford to drop everything and return to education. However, with a distance learning provider such as Anglia Ruskin University, you can study on a schedule that suits your needs.
With distance learning, you’ll be able to continue working in your industry all the while gaining the qualifications you need to secure your dream job.
4. Network in Your Industry
Landing your dream job is sometimes about who you know as much as it is about what you know.
Make an effort to network in your industry. This can either be through in person conferences, events, and workshops or online with platforms such as LinkedIn.
When you start making connections, not only will you help sell yourself for job vacancies, but you can benefit from the advice of those more experienced than yourself.
5. Work on Social Media Hygiene
The rise in popularity of social media means that increasingly employers are searching prospective candidates to discover what they post online.
If you’re in the process of applying for a new job, then it’s essential that you go through your old posts and ensure that there’s nothing visible to the public that you wouldn’t want a potential employer to see.
Share your tips for securing your dream job in the comments below!
