I would like to provide some practical steps to create some opportunities for yourself, especially if you have a « non typical » profile in the Swiss market.
If you have been looking for a job for a while without success, this article is just for you!
Step 1 - You are the product
I strongly suggest to build a marketing plan for yourself before hitting the market with your applications. Your marketing plan should be coherent in terms of:
- Message
- Quality of your application
- Target market
- Invest time in your cover letters and resume.
Your communication must be coherent everywhere. Invest in a good quality headshot to post on your online profile and on your resume.
Tip: Remember you won’t get a chance to make a second good first impression!
Step 2 - Make a list of what you are looking for in a position
The notion of « market » is vast. Are you looking for a position in coherence with your other life goals? Example: Seeking a Senior Leadership role while wanting to have more free time to do other things. Most candidates have a hard time because they are conflicted on their goal(s). I suggest making a list of what you are looking for in a position.
Step 3 - Think network
If you are new in town, you probably don’t know many people. Start joining many groups and go out to events.
Additional resources to increase your chances to get work opportunities :
- Open up your horizons
- Start your own business
- Network with recruitment agencies
- Change your routine
- Make the internet search work for you
- Use social networks to boost your search
- Do not under-estimate any opportunities
- Boost your market potential
- Consider jobs with less seniority
For additional resources, watch my youtube video on HOW TO PICK A CAREER.