Blog
Grass is greener? When and when not to switch jobs
Over the last several months I have met with countless successful individuals who are profoundly dissatisfied with their jobs and careers. The degree of disaffection hit home this week when I met with an old friend. A senior level manager in his third position in seven years, he is resolved that his level of happiness at work will never be what it once was. He is committed to his current job because he feels trapped and he does not believe any other job is better. Pretty profound stuff.
How much am I worth?
Most people ask this question when beginning their search for a new job and use salary as a search field. This is also a question asked by employers generally when offering a role. TradeMe and Seek both have a salary guide which offers advice, this is particularly useful when coming to New Zealand from abroad.
Follow the links below:
Connecting to the job
Jobs are found through ‘weak ties’. These are the people with loose connections who span different networks. We know that most jobs are found through word-of-mouth, but it’s not your best buddies’ word of mouth, it’s the word you get from buddies you know (possibly through other buddies) as acquaintances.
If you are one of those people who are able to connect across several networks you are more likely to pick up on job opportunities.
Returning to the workforce
How can I prepare myself for a return to work? (http://www2.careers.govt.nz/plan-your-career/i-want-to-change-career-or-return-to-work/returning-to-work/#c10230)
Make sure your CV is up to date, laid out properly, concise and tailored to the work you are looking for. You might like to seek advice from a career consultant and/or ask them to review your CV.
In Person Interview Preparation
Prepare and allow ample time for travel. You want to appear timely – but don’t be more than 5mins early as turning up half an hour early does not do you any favours when the interviewer is a busy person.
Research – go online and look at the company’s website (familiarise yourself with their products and or services), their competitors and google the company for the latest news on the direction the company is taking.
Phone Interview Preparation
Some employers choose to prescreen job applicants over the phone before doing an in-person interview. If you’re selected for a phone interview, prepare for a phone interview just as carefully as you would for a regular interview.
Prepare for a Phone Interview
Research the job and the company so you are prepared to discuss the company and your role if you were to be hired.
Compile a list of answers to typical phone interview questions.