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If you’re working in a job that you may not love, it may be hard to find the motivation to look for something new. Sometimes the feeling that you’re not going anywhere in your current position can hold you back from seeking new opportunities, or maybe the people you work with are why you stay. Whatever your reason, the New Year is a great time to evaluate your current situation and seek out opportunities that will benefit you. Here we’ll explore some tips for resolving to find your dream job:
1. Take Stock.
Take a step back and really evaluate your current situation. Is there something you could do in your current position to make it bearable for you, like avoid that nasty co-worker as best you can, speak up about what’s making you unhappy, or start a new project with the fun, creative person you’ve been meaning to work with? Keep in mind that finding a new job is not a quick, easy task in most cases, so if your situation is such that you must earn a paycheck, might as well make it quasi-enjoyable.
2. Evaluate Yourself.
The goal here is to land a job that will make you happy, so it’s best to choose one that fits you. Make a list of your ideal job, and a list of your qualities (ask friends, trusted co-workers, family to help). As you’re job hunting, keep the list beside you so that you only apply to the jobs that fit your requirements.
3. Review your Benefits.
If it’s a raise you’re after that you’re not getting, take a look at the entire picture. If you receive benefits, make sure you are utilizing them to their full capacity. Check to see if your company does 401K contributions, or if your company-paid medical insurance has a gym membership reimbursement, or maybe it offers free yearly physicals for preventative care. All of these things equal more money for you, even though you may not see it in your paycheck. It’s good to keep this in mind while job hunting, so you can be sure you’re making an equal switch or moving up salary-wise.
4. Do your research.
As they say, the grass is always greener. Make sure you do plenty of research on the companies you’re applying to. Glassdoor.com has reviews of companies direct from employees that can shed light on company culture. If you know anyone that works at the company, that’s even better. If you’re going to make a switch for the money, be sure that you’re confident it is the right move. The last thing you want to do is make a big salary move for a job that is so terrible that you’re never in a good mood to enjoy your accomplishment.
5. Stick with it!
Remember that you’re being selective- your dream job may not fall into your lap right away. Keep applying and interviewing, at least it will give you good experience. Think positive and don’t give up!
Have any other tips? Success stories? Leave them in the comments!
