How to get your dream job

Are you looking for a new job? If so, it helps to plan your job search strategy, including the type of position, salary, and cultural environment that's the right fit for you. Here are some tips from Career Matters (www.cvmatters.com) to help you accomplish your goals.

Who
Identify companies which have positions requiring your skills. Explore traditional and non-traditional industries where your experience is transferable. Who can assist you in your job search through referrals and networking? Attend networking events and ask family, friends and colleagues for referrals. Research the companies, position and salary you desire based on the career market and your qualifications.

What
What does a dream job mean to you? Is it salary, responsibility, title, power, or something else? Make a list of the things that are most important to your career. What unique skills, knowledge, and abilities do you have that can open new doors for you?

WhereM
Where do you want to work? Do you prefer to work in the public sector, a ëblue chipí company, non-profit organisation, private industry or as an entrepreneur? Which choice will provide you with the career plan and salary package you want?

When
When will you make your career change? Plan a target date for accomplishing your goals and outline how you plan to manage your time, especially if you continue working at your current job. Identify what you will need to do each week in order to meet your target date.

Why
Ask yourself why you are looking for new employment. The key to finding your dream job is acknowledging why you want a new career. Some of these reasons may help you determine this:

ï Salary increase
ï New manager
ï New industry
ï Work location closer to home
ï New division or department
ï Acknowledgment for your accomplishments
ï Leverage your experience
ï Overlooked for promotions
ï Lack of challenge and responsibility
ï Too long in the same position
ï Overworked and underpaid
ï Dead-end job

An effective job search requires commitment, determination, persistence and patience. Not every career opportunity will be right for you - consider the pros and cons of each. Trust your instincts - a dream job should feel good!

Julie Harding, Career Matters (www.cvmatters.com), freephone 0800 458 5578. For a free CV review and quote for professional CV and cover letter writing email info@cvmatters.com.