Don’t let the madness of job-hunting beat you.

Job hunting can be a stressful and all-consuming experience.  It is a full-time job in-itself, an emotional rollercoaster and can make you go mad. The research and prepping needed, finding the time to attend interviews and always needing to be at the top of your game, is hard work.  So, in no way a definitive list but, below are some tips, that may seem obvious but at the same time if employed, could be the difference between getting and not getting the job and keeping your sanity in check.

Firstly, take a big deep breath
Job hunting can be very distressing, but if you panic, it can come across as desperate and you will not present yourself at your best or make good long-term decisions….

Take stock
Think about your key strengths and skills.  Focus your search on roles that really are the best match, ensuring you can confidently articulate measurable results that positively impacted a business

Cast a wide BUT measured net
Don’t apply to everything but do cover all bases and look at a broader selection of roles.   Where possible put in a tailored application rather, giving specific reasons as to why you are a good fit.

Invest in a relationship with a good recruiter
Be on the radar for all opportunities, but do select agencies who are most likely to work on roles you want.  Try to nurture a good working relationship with them, meet them and be honest, so that they represent you accordingly and put in a strong recommendation for you.  A good recruiter will always know more about the role than if you apply direct, and will also invariably call their ‘top’ candidates first – make sure you are on that list.

Keep track of your CV
This one is so important.  If you want a recruiter to help you, make sure you know who has sent your CV to which companies.  Being told by HR that they already have your CV, makes everyone look unprofessional, breaks some trust, and usually leads to a negative outcome.

Think about interim
Whilst looking for your dream permanent role, you should consider a short-term contract, if you are not working.  It will give you invaluable and current experience to talk about at interview, give confidence and ensure you have some money coming in.

Make your network work for you
Make sure your LinkedIn profile is up to date and let people know you are available.  You will be surprised how far your network will reach.  Word of mouth is as powerful as ever.

Keep busy
The interview process can be a painful one, takes patience and often takes longer than ideal.  Keep busy and keep you mind active – it will keep you positive and not frustrated

Learn from each experience
It is always disappointing to hear that you are not the successful candidate but try and get feedback to find out why.  Ask for warts and all – there is nothing more annoying than the feedback ‘they loved you but you are not right’ – you need to know, so you can learn and improve for each interview.   You have invested your time in a process, so you should take something away from it.

Do not jump at the first job
Taking the first role, you get offered will solve the immediate problem but is it the right fit.  If it isn’t the fix won’t be a long term one and you will find yourself looking again – how frustrating.  Consider the pros and cons of any offer, make an informed decision and most importantly the right one

And finally…
The job hunting process can be tough.  Dependent on your current situation the stress of job hunting can be huge – your emotions will go up and down with every new opportunity you explore.  But every experience will help you narrow down what you want from a new role and your hard work will lead to the right match sooner rather than later.

GOOD LUCK!