We recently got some job-hunting tips from a top recruitment consultant and now, we’re looking at taking the next big step in the job search process. Be it a dream promotion or a change in career altogether, here’s our top tips to help you work your way to success. ________________________________________________ Go find yourself We all like to think that 10 (or so) years after the Leaving Cert we know exactly who we are and what we want. Unfortunately, that’s not always the case and taking some time to re-evaluate exactly where you’re going and more importantly, what direction you’d like to be going in is key. Explore what matters to you – perhaps you love being creative? Maybe you like leading people or organizing? Are you a people person or prefer to work on your own? Finding an answer to all of these kind of questions can help you find your way on to the right career path. From there, you can decide where you’d like to live, what length of a commute you’d be willing to do and other aspects of a job including hours and wages. Now the hard work begins… Once you have some idea of what you’d like to do, the hard work is only beginning. Now you need to figure out if you’ve got what it takes to get you where you need to be. Perhaps you need to go back to college? Maybe you need to do an add-on course, or maybe you need to learn a new skill? Focus on exactly what is needed to get where you need to be and buckle down and get it done. It'll be worth it, we promise. Out on your own? If you’re thinking of starting up your own business, a lot more research needs to be done, and it’s time to open a dialogue with your bank and local enterprise board. Don’t be afraid to ask people who have been in your situation for some advice. Don’t worry, the hard work – whichever direction it takes you – will all be worth it in the end. Fail to prepare… Prepare to fail. As clichéd as it might sound, the saying is true. If you don’t prepare yourself for success, than be prepared to fail. Go over your CV with a fine tooth comb, or better yet, get somebody else to go over it too with a critical eye. And while it might sound obvious, make sure to have your CV in a font that is clear and easy-to-read. The big day Have an interview on the horizon? The only thing you can do is practise, practise, and practise. Confidence comes with practise and you certainly want to be feeling the best going into an interview. Get your friends, family or other half to ask you interview-style questions, Google ‘difficult interview questions’ and see can you compose a reply to them. Above all, research the company you are interviewing with and, if possible, the people who will be interviewing you. Remember, knowledge is power. The power of marketing And we don’t mean for your business or job – we mean marketing yourself. Regardless of whether you’re hoping to move up the ladder in the company you already work with or change jobs altogether, it is crucial that you market yourself well. As already mentioned, your CV and cover letter are the first opportunity you have to give a prospective employer a glimpse of who you are. Make sure that that first impression is brilliant and if you get called for interview, dress appropriately, arrive on time and don’t be afraid to show off your skill set. It’s all about networking A lot of people cringe away from the word networking, but whether you love it or hate it, it has to be done and is a reality of modern day business. Get out there and meet people who are in your field. Not only will you get invaluable help and advice, but you will also be making useful contacts for the future which is vital. Chin up We all know how hard it can be to follow your dreams but persevere and keep strong. Everyone has taken a knock back on the road to success and above all, remember that nothing worth having ever comes easy.