In working with clients who are looking to get a new job, or to move up the ladder, the one missing ingredient I see is that they have no strategy or focus in their job search yet they are bewildered as to why they are seeing no results. Strategy and Focus are the two keys that will help you hone, refine and then feel confident to go in the career path you want to go.
Strategy – just as you need a road map – or GPS, these days – having a strategy is the plan that will take you from where you are now to where it is you want to go. It consists of the goal, say the new position you exactly want (not just a job), the company you want to work for, and then defines all of the steps you need to take that will lead you there, such as research, refining your resume or LinkedIn profile, networking, follow-up and honing your interview skills. Having a strategy will help you to feel more in control of the situation and will guide you as to what you need to do on a daily basis.
Focus – just as you need to be focused when you drive, you need to be focused in, and on, your job search. Having the confidence in your skills and abilities for how you will add value to an employer is critical; believing in the plan you have created will lead you to the results you want to achieve, and then never taking your eye ‘off the road’ will allow you to continue moving ahead until you achieve your desired outcome.
Managing your career is your responsibility so you need to take control of it, and being strategic and focused will help you get there.
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