If you are like the majority of accountants and professionals you more than likely approach your job search in the following way.
You decide it’s time to move jobs. You open up your computer. Update or create a new CV. Start applying for jobs.
You might be wondering what the problem is with this. Let’s use the analogy of building a house. You don’t start by putting up the walls or the roof. You start by digging the foundations to create a solid base.
If you are going to be successful in your job search it’s vital that you start with the foundational work.
Ultimately this foundational work is designed to help you:
- Get clarity about what you really want from your next job. As a professional you don’t just want to be job hopping randomly if you want to build a successful career.
- Establish what you have to offer to the next organisation you work for. This helps you in discussions with recruiters and potential employers.
- Produce better marketing materials such as a CV and LinkedIn profile which helps get you that all important invitation to interview.
If you do the foundational work you will be head and shoulders above the majority of other professionals seeking to make the next step in their career.
Of course it takes time, commitment and effort. On the other hand think about it from the employing organisations’ perspective.
Taking someone on is a major investment decision. They need to:
- Pay your salary every month
- Pay employers national insurance
- Make a contribution to a pension
- Give you a certain number of days holiday where you still get paid even though not working
- Provide a desk, a computer, equipment and materials.
This can easily add another 50% on top of the salary you are being paid.
So the question to ask yourself is whether you are really willing to do the foundational work to enable you to take the next step in your career? Or are you looking to take a shortcut?