Anyone who has ever held down a job for any time length knows that no job is perfect. Also, it may seem tasking to find the perfect job. However, we can also agree that some jobs are better than others or ideal for particular goals or interests.
If you’re starting a job search and hoping to find something close to perfect, you’ll quickly learn that finding your one “true love takes time and effort.”
It’ll all be worth it when you find a job you fall in love with. Take a look at this quick guide to finding your perfect job in four steps.
Step 1: Know Yourself
Before you can find a good fit job, you need to know yourself. You also need to understand your interests and passions.
Self-discovery helps you identify the things that motivate you. What are your skills and abilities?
What are your personality traits and values? These questions will make the perfect job clearer to you.
It can be helpful to take some quiet time away from your phone, TV, and other distractions. Use a journal to brainstorm answers to the questions above. Afterwhich, write down possible career paths that might suit you.
These brainstorming tips from Indeed provide a useful starting point.
Step 2: Discover Available Jobs
The internet is an invaluable resource when you’re looking for a job. It’s where you can find countless job listings, many of which aren’t advertised elsewhere.
Thanks to the internet and advancements in technology, there are many platforms where you can often apply for a job online. Job search sites are probably the most obvious place to start your search.
These sites aggregate job listings from numerous employer websites and other sources, and they make it easy to set job alerts for jobs of interest. Some options include:
- Indeed
- Glassdoor
- ZipRecruiter
- Ladders
- Monster
- SimplyHired
- Snagajob
Step 3: Use Non-Traditional Resources
If you want your job to be more than just a way to pay the bills, you might need to get creative and tap into niche resources, such as:
- Networking events. Search for and attend events near you in industries that interest you. You can make use of search engines and social media.
- Ask friends and family. You never know who might be hiring, and there may be openings that aren’t listed on job boards.
- Look on company websites. Many employers post their open positions on their websites first.
- Use social media. Follow companies that interest you. Search for people you might know at specific companies and connect with them on LinkedIn.
Step 4: Apply for Jobs
When you’re ready to apply for a position, make sure your resume is speedy. Here are some tips:
- Include your contact information at the top to make it easy for employers to connect.
- Underneath your contact details, write a summary of your qualifications and experience.
- Keep it to one page — two pages tops if you have a longer work history.
- Only include work history from the past 10 to 15 years.
- Do not list references or the phrase “references available upon request”; this is understood.
- Use active verbs, and focus on outcomes and accomplishments rather than just your job responsibilities — for example, “Achieved 90% ROI on campaign X.”
- Customize a cover letter to send along with your resume. Use it to display your character, address any gaps in your work history, and mention changes in your career trajectory.
If you’re looking for the perfect job, don’t get discouraged if it doesn’t happen overnight. Be persistent, maintain a positive mindset, and return to your “why” anytime you need extra encouragement.
With a little extra effort, you’ll be able to stand out from other candidates, nail your interviews, and land the job of your dreams.
Helen is a down to earth bibliophile who loves to write when she isn’t reading. She is geared toward making the world a better place by encouraging individuals to be self-aware, happy, and goal-oriented. She is a personal development advocate and mental health enthusiast.
