How to Improve Your Career Prospects
Have you reached the stage where you are no longer growing in your current career? Perhaps you have recently been made redundant and looking for new opportunities or have the ambition to do something entirely different? Whatever your reason may be for switching careers at this stage, the good news is that there are several ways you can improve your prospects – from gaining an education to networking and boosting your skillset.
Taking control of your career is essential if you want to climb up the ladder, so this article has gathered together some useful tips on how to improve your career prospects:
· Gain an education
Depending on the industry you wish to branch into, it may be a fundamental requirement for you to gain the relevant qualifications. If, for example, you have the desire to become an architect or project manager, you would need to attend construction school to gain a Bachelor of Science in Construction Management, while aspiring teachers would need to complete a teaching course. Carry out research into your desired industry and discover the education requirements for the career path.
· Volunteer
Volunteering is the perfect way to stand out from the crowd when applying for job roles. Without relevant experience in your chosen industry, there’s a high likelihood that your application will get pushed aside in favor of those with some experience under their belt. Volunteering gives you the chance to get professional experience and acquire key skills that you can add to your resumé and become a competitive candidate in the job hunt.
· Network
You may have heard the phrase, ‘it’s not what you know, it’s who you know,’ and this is extremely true when it comes to the world of work. Networking is crucial for enhancing your possibilities, but it isn’t always easy for those who are a little more introverted.
Try to keep in touch with tutors, as they may be able to point you in the direction of job openings as well as provide a reference for your application. Those you meet during volunteering may have their own network links to help you succeed.
Networking online has never been easier thanks to sites for career professionals, such as LinkedIn and popular social media platforms like Twitter. Politely introduce yourself and express your interest in jobs in their industry. You never know who that one person may be that could open up the doors to your dream career.
· Create a portfolio
If you’re hoping to branch into a creative industry, building a portfolio is a great way to show the employer what you are capable of. It may also be worthwhile to showcase your portfolio online to attract the attention of hiring managers. If they like what they see, they may contact you and offer a professional opportunity you can’t refuse.
· Register with recruitment agencies
If you are applying to hundreds of jobs and not getting any responses, your next option would be to register with a trusted recruitment agency. The better the relationship you build with the recruiter, the more likely they’ll work hard to find the best position for you.
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