Expert shares five tips to help you spring clean your career
As the weather warms and the days grow longer, the arrival of Spring marks a time for renewal - including careers. With many employers ramping up hiring at the start of a new financial year, Career Expert shares her best advice on securing that dream job.
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Know what you want from your career
“Before you jump into the job market, take time to reflect on what you truly want from your career,” Bethany begins.
"Research from Generation Logistics reveals that 69 per cent of job seekers prioritise work-life balance when selecting their dream role, while 66 per cent seek competitive pay.
“Establishing your priorities - whether that is flexibility, growth opportunities or company culture - will help you to focus your search and find a role that fits with your values and lifestyle.
“This may include taking a look at a different career path that is better suited to you than one you may already be established in. For example, logistics is a sector that 90% of people have never considered as a career choice2 yet it offers flexibility as well as excellent opportunities for career growth.
Tailor your CV for maximum impact
“When it comes to your CV, being clear and concise will have the strongest impact. Avoid clichés like “hard-working”,”team player” and “go-getter” as they add little value. Instead use active verbs like “led”, “achieved” or “delivered” to highlight your achievements.
“Timing is key. Keep your CV relevant by including only roles from the last 10 years that align with the position you are applying for, ensuring your CV stays focused. Trim unnecessary personal details such as your date of birth, marital status, or photos unless specifically requested, maintaining a professional tone throughout
“Additionally, simplify the formatting of your CV to avoid complicated layouts that might confuse applicant tracking systems. A clean, easy-to-read design will increase your chances of passing through the initial sift and catching a recruiter’s attention.”
Don’t mass-apply - be strategic
“Rather than sending out numerous applications to every job on the market, take the time to research each opportunity thoroughly,” Bethany continues.
“It’s important to understand the company culture and job role, to ensure that it aligns with your personal goals. Being strategic about where you apply will lead to better results in the long run and increase your chances of finding a role that excites you and matches your skills.”
Optimise your online presence
“In today’s digital world, your online presence plays an important role in the hiring process. Ensure your LinkedIn profile is up-to-date and aligned with your CV.
“Additionally, clean up any personal social media accounts that might not reflect a professional image. A strong online profile can help you standout, especially if you’re active within your industry and engage in regular discussions.”
Network to increase your chances
“Networking is one of the most powerful tools in a job search,” Bethany explains.
“Whether you’re connecting with industry professionals on LinkedIn, attending networking events, or engaging with people in your field, building relationships can lead to valuable opportunities. The more you network, the more likely you are to hear about unadvertised roles or receive referrals from contacts in your sector. “
Bethany Windsor concludes: “In today’s highly competitive job market, standing out from the crowd is crucial. Finding a role may be tough, but those who put in the effort to understand what they truly want and how to present themselves strategically will be in a strong position to succeed.
