1. Finding employment is a job in itself

Finding a job should be approached like a work task. Create a plan of action and a timeline, or allocate a certain amount of time each day or week to looking for new employment. By not approaching the search professionally, you could miss out on a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

2. Focus on what you like and what you are good at

To find out which is the right job for you, one that you would enjoy and be motivated to do, first make a list of all the tasks you have carried out with passion during your career. Then make a list of tasks that you are best at and where you achieved the best results. When you have gained a basic understanding of what you like and what you are good at, you can start researching what job positions combine these tasks.  Try to also find out whether you would need any additional skills to be able to fill these positions and how you could go about obtaining them.

3. Meet your future employer

Now that you have a clearer picture of which job positions match your interests and capabilities, make a list of the companies that offer these types of jobs and study their activities, organisational culture, as well as all the various aspects of the job position. Follow these companies on LinkedIn, on other social networks and their own websites to ensure that you are always ready to grab the next opportunity that arises.

4. Keep up to date with what is happening in your field

Subscribe to work-related magazines that are relevant to your field and stay up to date. Besides professional tips and advice, these types of magazines often post personnel changes and openings, you might be able to find your opportunity here.
Be proactive and think about the future! Some professional fields develop very quickly, so be on the lookout and anticipate where there might be a demand for personnel with specific know-how in your field and attempt to obtain it.

5. Network and build your personal brand

The larger the network of people who know your work, the greater the chance that a new opportunity will open up for you.  Writing articles in work-related magazines, journals and blogs, taking part in seminars, active participation in professional associations and interest groups, as well as other professional activities will help you build on your credibility in your field. You can also use social networks such as LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter and Google+, etc., to network and build your personal brand.

6. Make sure your résumé is always ready

You never know when the right employment opportunity will emerge, which is why we recommend that you always have a résumé, prepared that highlights those skills and experience that are relevant to the job position that you are applying for. It is also good to keep your LinkedIn profile up to date, as well as other relevant social networks and use keywords to make it easier to find you. If you don’t have a profile yet, create one as soon as possible. Send your résumé to a recruitment agency, that offers the most employment opportunities in your field or to one that you can trust. Often, agencies do not even post the best jobs online but simply use their databases.

7. Employers are interested in achievements that can benefit their company

In addition to sending the employer your résumé, also send a carefully written cover letter, in which you can write about your passion and dedication for the job in more detail as well as express your interest in working in this particular company. With the help of concrete examples from your own experience, describe your career achievements that demonstrate how your experiences can benefit the company you would like to work at.

8. The job interview is key

Your performance at your job interview plays a crucial role in whether they will offer you the job or not. In order to be able to confidently answer the employer’s questions, make sure you are well-prepared for the interview. Prior to the interview, keep firmly in mind what is important to you, what it is the employer is looking for and how can you contribute to the success of the company with your experience, expertise and skills. This is why it is a good idea to research the company and the relevant industry in detail beforehand, find out who is in charge and who will be heading the interview. furthermore, be prepared to answer the most frequently asked questions  and write down some of your own questions to ask the employer. On the day of the interview, be punctual, dress appropriately and make sure that your words, in addition to your body language and gestures, reflect your trustworthiness and readiness to take on a challenge.

9. Perseverance and proactiveness lead to positive results

Hunting for the right job can take some time, so do not give up! It is important that you believe in yourself, know what you want and are proactive. Sooner or later you will recognise the right job position among the opportunities on offer.