Planning for a job search can be overwhelming. Not only do you have to put in the work to look for a new job, but you also need to create an action plan to ensure a smooth transition.
James Clear, author of the #1 New York Times bestseller, Atomic Habits states “When you’re in motion, you’re planning and strategizing and learning. Those are all good things, but they don’t produce results. Action, on the other hand, is the type of behavior that will deliver an outcome.”
Here are four actions you can take to make certain your job search leads to your desired outcome!
Action #1: Jot down your reasons for the change
Listen to your gut. If intuition is telling you it’s time for a new job, write down all the reasons you have for wanting to make a change. To start, consider asking yourself the following questions:
- Why do I feel inspired to find a new job?
- What is it about my current job that no longer suits my needs?
- What are some non-negotiables for my next job?
- Why now?
Getting all of your thoughts out of your head can help provide clarity. Once you outline all of the reasons you’re ready for a job change, it will be that much easier to take action.
Action #2: Document your fears
There will inevitably be fears you face while preparing for a job search. After all, leaving the security and familiarity of your current job for a new position comes inherent feelings of risk and anxiety. However, being scared is actually a great sign you’re about to do something amazing in your career.
Fear is healthy and it doesn’t have to prevent you from progressing in your search. Allow yourself to acknowledge these negative thoughts and emotions. Document your fears on paper, or record yourself saying them so you can reflect on these emotions. It’s an incredibly effective therapeutic exercise that will help you purge the negativities so you can make room for positivity and growth.
Action #3: Enlist a personal support system
It’s your job search, but you don’t have to take a leap of faith all by yourself. Enlist a support system of friends, family, mentors, or a career coach. Even partnering with an external recruiter will help keep you motivated and on track to achieve the job search results you desire.
Ask your support system about their experiences when they’ve been in your shoes. Do they wish they would have done anything differently during one of their career changes? What has made them unhappy with their jobs? Were they able to resolve their concerns and decide to keep a job instead of beginning a search? Hearing the options of people you respect and trust will help provide reassurance and confidence in the steps you decide to take next.
Action #4: Partner with an external recruiter
Searching for a job is a part-time job. Your 9 to 5 can often be daunting and exhausting. So, save your brainpower for the interviews by working with a recruiter who can support your job search activities. Not to mention, they will assist in making for a smooth transition throughout the entire process – from the interview to your first 90 days on the job – and beyond.
Not sure what type of recruiter is best for you? We have you covered! Here are six tips on How to Select the Right Recruiter of Your Next Job Search.
