When you decide it’s time to look for a new opportunity, it might seem like an overwhelming task. It’s often a long process, and whether you choose to tackle the search yourself, or work with a trusted recruiter, there will probably be challenges. However, with some honest self-reflection and a bit of planning at the outset, you can save yourself quite a few headaches along the way.
Before you call your favorite recruiter or hit the job boards, you need to spend some time creating a plan and preparing to put your best foot forward.
At this stage there are two key things that I’d suggest you keep in mind:
1.) Be Specific –You need to spend a few minutes taking stock of what’s really important to you. This goes beyond just job responsibilities and compensation. Are you really willing to relocate? If so, where? Have you discussed relocation with your family? Are there any specific companies you’d like to work with or companies you’d like to avoid? Are you better at managing accounts directly, or would you rather sell through distribution? Leave no stone unturned at this stage.
I can’t tell you how many times I’ve talked to individuals that say they are actively searching for a new role, but can’t get any deeper than “I’m looking for a better job that pays more.” If you don’t know what you are looking for it’s hard for me to help you find it. If you truly want to find your dream job, you need to put effort into figuring out what that job looks like and what specific criteria it has to meet.
2.) Be Smart – Building a resume has never been fun and won’t ever be fun. However, I can’t overstate how important it is to your job search. It’s usually the first time a recruiter or a hiring manager gets to see a complete picture of what you’ve accomplished and it’s also a snapshot of how you operate. Do you want people to think that you are sloppy and don’t proofread your work? I hope not. So while it’s time-consuming and not very exciting, you must spend time creating a strong resume.
First, make sure the formatting is consistent and easy to follow. The where/what/when of your career should be crystal clear at first glance. Second, make sure the dates, titles, and responsibilities are complete and accurate. Dishonesty on your resume will bring an interview process to a screeching halt. Last, but certainly not least, you have to double, triple, and quadruple check that there are NO grammatical mistakes or spelling errors. Have someone else proofread it, and then someone else. It may seem like overkill, but first impressions carry a lot of weight.
Your resume is the first chance you’ll get to impress and you should treat it that way. If you need some help getting started you can find a sample resume template on our website HERE. Once you have it completed you can send it to us via this link – SUBMIT RESUME HERE
If your goal is to take the next step in your career, and not just find another job, these suggestions will help make that process more efficient. If you are specific about what you are looking for and smart about how you present yourself, you’ll save time and help others help you.
Written by: Paul Horn, Account Manager
Paul Horn has been part of the Industrial recruitment team at TYGES for 12 years. During that time Paul has helped clients find professionals in nearly every discipline in the world of industrial manufacturing, including Sales, Operations, Engineering, Continuous Improvement, and Supply Chain. He prides himself on his professionalism and his ability to build meaningful, consultative relationships with professionals at any level, in any organization.
Prior to joining TYGES Paul studied American History at the University of Florida (Go Gators!), where he earned both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees.
“We’re here to make good things happen for other people.“
