The New Year represents different things to different people. The New Year brings with it the historical tradition of making a New Years Resolution. It’s a time to reflect back on the closing year, and look to the future with newfound energy and motivation to make it the best year yet. For some, this means a time to finally do what they’ve been putting off, whether that’s implementing a new health and fitness regimen, or making a big professional decision.
If you are facing the New Year with the resolve of quitting your job in search of a better fit, you’re in luck. We’ve heard that 2017 is going to be a year for talent. In fact, a recent report reveals that 83% of all recruiters claim that talent is the number one priority for companies this year. In the following blog, we’ll tell you what that means for you, and how you can make the hiring trends of 2017 work in your favor.
Network
Put yourself in a position to connect with other professionals in your field. An easy (and fun) way to do this is through networking. Networking takes practice. If you’re naturally shy, or not used to being in these types of social situations, here’s some advice to help you get started.
Talk to people. It can be easy to arrive and wait for someone to approach you first, but you’ll get a lot more out of your experience if you spark a conversation with a simple question like, “What brings you to this event?” You’ll realize that almost everyone is at a networking event for one of a few reasons; they’re hiring for a company, seeking employment, looking for a service, or offering a service.
Ask questions. Networking is all about relationship building. Even if you know you’re talking to the hiring manager of your dream job, and they’re hiring, don’t present yourself like you would in an interview, starting with a hard sell. Remember, you’re looking for the right fit for you too. Show interest in them, ask them questions about their company, build the relationship, keep it light, and when it feels natural, make it known that you’re in the market. Don’t start with an aggressive ask, but also don’t be afraid to let it be known that you’re looking for work after you’ve built a rapport. If they like you, they’re more likely to go out of their way to refer you or introduce you to another hiring manager if they don’t have a good place for you at their company. You’d be surprised at jobs that get filled before being posted because someone knows someone or gets a strong referral. This is how a lot of hiring gets done especially at the top, so make sure you’re in the mix.
Ask For A Referral
Get a referral, recommendation, or introduction. With a high volume of job applicants for every role that’s posted online, it’s hard to know if a recruiter or hiring manager ever sees your resume. There is nothing wrong with applying online. But if you know anyone at the company, it’s always best to have them share your resume directly with the person in charge of hiring.
Explore Your Options
Take advantage of flexibility and remote work. Candidates with skills in high demand may be able to work remotely, for big or small companies. If you’re changing jobs but not ready to move, consider looking for roles outside of your city and asking to stay put. Hiring remote workers can actually save money for the company in the long run; therefore, while not all companies can accommodate remote employees, many are finding ways to make it work.
Get certified in something you already know. It may seem silly to get certified in something you already know how to do, but getting certified will prove to an employer that your skills are up-to-date. It keeps you valuable and marketable. It also reinforces your value as an employee; with the certification representing your level of skill as an unbiased, industry standard of performance.
Find Your Ideal Values Fit
Values fit is typically defined from the top down. Take your time finding the best fit for you by defining what that looks like. Remember, you spend a huge percentage of your life at work, so it’s important to your professional and emotional health to spend that time at a place that nurtures a healthy, supportive culture that aligns with your personal values, making you excited to invest in that company. Remember, they’re not only hiring you, you’re hiring them too so don’t be afraid to ask the hard questions and look out for your best interests.
Social Good
Find a company that shares your values. Millenials are famously becoming known as the generation of Social Good. With the millennial generation expected to comprise nearly half of all workers by 2020, more companies are making social good a priority. If you’re anything like the 81% of Millennials who expect companies to make a public commitment to good corporate citizenship, seek out companies that support causes that you care about. Sharing a greater purpose with your place of employment will help make you feel rewarded through your job. Find companies that integrate social good into their business, and vet them based on what’s most meaningful to you.
Diversity is finally taking hold as a business prerogative. That means that talented folks should have their pick of roles and be valued for their skills. If you’re part of a minority or underrepresented group in your field, shop around. It bears repeating, remember that the company isn’t just interviewing you; you’re also interviewing the company. Even if you’re not a part of a minority or underrepresented group, we can all champion companies and leaders who support workplace diversity. Look for companies that are aligned with your personal values, and don’t settle for less.
If you’re hoping the New Year brings with it a shiny new job, consider the points we’ve made, and make 2017 the year you land your dream job!
