Traits of successful job seekers

Moving from employment to becoming a job seeker can be an emotional and stressful process. Looking at the change as a positive opportunity will help you take control of your job search, cope with the change, and increase positive results.  Every jobseeker comes from a different background with varied qualifications, experience and goals. This article has gathered some traits that are commonly recognised in the most successful jobseekers.

Clarity and focus

Jobseekers with clear goals and defined career plans are much more likely to succeed than those with no plans at all. All too often those who have been made redundant immediately look to find a similar job elsewhere, so why not take a step back and consider whether the job you were in before is really what you want? Whether you are unclear which direction to take, or you are looking for a career change, it’s advisable to spend time on a self-analysis. Give yourself time to understand where to go from here.

• What is your long term goal and how will you achieve it?
• Assess your skills and experience and consider the environments and roles you would consider working in.
• What values are important to you?

Clarity is an important trait when job seeking, as it enables a more targeted job search. If you’re working with Recruitment Consultants they will have more to work with if you have a good idea of what your next opportunity needs to look like. Knowing your career priorities and the skills you want to use is the first step towards finding suitable matching opportunities.  Maintaining this focus throughout the entire process is also important as it will help you keep up momentum.

A positive outlook

Individuals whose roles have been made redundant often go through a range of emotions including shock, anger and disbelief. It is important to stay positive throughout every aspect of job seeking – when setting your goals, making applications, and attending interviews. First impressions count and employers will look upon a positive and enthusiastic candidate much more favourably.

Adaptability

The current job market is competitive and may be overwhelming for those who have not had to search for jobs recently. Successful jobseekers are willing to adapt, take advice and feedback and act upon it, as well as keen to try new approaches and embrace new technologies. Candidates need to make sure they stand out, and only those willing to adapt and improve will thrive in the evolving job market - this may mean you need to consider adjusting expectations on salary and location.

Motivation

Jobseekers need to actively seek out opportunities by using a variety of methods, including consulting online job boards, contacting friends and colleagues and calling upon their professional network, as well as making direct approaches to target organisations. Taking a committed, productive and proactive approach to the job search process will maximise your chances of securing more interviews and having the opportunity to really sell yourself to potential employers.

Preparation

Being able to promote yourself effectively requires confidence and self-assurance and is a skill in its own right. If you have fully prepared in advance, you will automatically feel more confident and in control, and you will have more chance of standing out at interview and going forward to the next round or to secure the role.

Successful candidates will:

• Research the organisation and its business plans, the key staff, and fully understand what the role entails.
• Consider the questions they might be asked and will have practised their responses (out loud).
• Prepare questions for the interviewer and feel confidently prepared before they set foot in the door.
• Take the time to adequately prepare and practice before the interview as they know this really will make a difference.

Renovo is one of the UK’s leading providers of outplacement and career transition support. We work with both organisations and individuals to support all their career transition requirements. If you would like to understand how Renovo can help you please call 0800 612 2011 or email info@renovo.co.uk