We look at some steps you can take to enhance your job search and improve your opportunities to find the job that you want.

1) Identify your career goals

With unemployment at all-time lows, and wide-spread skills shortages that aren’t expected to ease in the near term, now is a great time to find that next step on your career journey

Before jumping into your job search journey, start by thinking about where you’d like your career to be in five years. Once you’ve identified your goal, you can focus on what steps to take and what skills you might need to get there.

2) Sell ALL your skills

Whether you’ve been out of work for a while or are re-entering the job market after an extended break, it’s important to recognize that you possess a variety of transferable skills that can help you succeed in your job search. Transferable skills are abilities that you have developed through past experiences, such as previous jobs, volunteering, or personal interests, and can be applied to new roles and industries.

Examples of transferable skills include communication, problem-solving, leadership, time management, teamwork, critical thinking, adaptability, creativity, attention to detail, and customer service.

By identifying your transferable skills and highlighting them in your resume, cover letter, and interviews, you can demonstrate your value to potential employers and show how your past experiences can translate into success in a new role. It’s also important to continue learning and developing new skills, which can help you stay competitive in the job market and open up new opportunities for career growth. Remember, everyone has unique experiences and strengths, and with the right mindset and approach, you can find a job that is a great fit for you.

As there is currently a skills shortage in Australia, employers are more open to transferable skills and then working with you to develop the skills that may be essential in a role.  When considering this an employer wants to know that you can be trusted to produce results. So add success metrics and examples to your resume and online professional profile as proof that you can deliver.

When preparing for an interview, practice articulating your quantifiable results in your answers to common interview questions.

3) Build (or rebuild) your network

Remote and hybrid working over the past couple of years may have had a detrimental effect on your ability to network and build relationships – one of the key aspects in advancing your career. Start seeking out networking opportunities, reconnect with recruiters, join a professional association and update your LinkedIn profile.

Visit LinkedIn to build your network

4) Stay Organised

Being organised helps you stay in control and feel more confident during your job search. Make a list or a spreadsheet to keep track of all the jobs you’re interested in, when you need to apply, and how to contact the employer. Keep your resume and cover letter in a place where you can easily find them and customise them for each job you apply to.

It’s also a good idea to set aside time each day or week to look for jobs and prioritise what you need to do, like going to job fairs or checking your email for responses from employers.

5) Staying Positive

Searching for a job can sometimes be tough and can leave you feeling discouraged. However, it’s important to try to stay positive throughout the process.

Focus on your strengths and accomplishments, and remind yourself of what you can bring to a potential employer. It’s also helpful to set realistic goals and celebrate small victories, such as making progress on your job search or receiving positive feedback on an application.

Staying connected with friends, family, and professional networks can provide emotional support and potential job leads. Additionally, taking breaks and engaging in self-care activities, such as exercise or hobbies, can help manage stress and boost your mood.