We see a lot of posts on LinkedIn telling jobseekers how important it is to have a job search strategy.
They aren’t wrong. But what actually is that? What does it look like? And how can you create one that lands you your next role?
No two job search strategies are exactly alike, but there are key elements that successful accounting and finance professionals share in common.
As a recruiter helping professionals like you land their next role every day, here’s what a job search strategy can look like:
Start by assessing your current skills and qualifications.
Understand where you stand in the dynamic accounting and finance landscape. Assessing your expertise against industry standards will help you determine your unique selling points and identify areas for development.
Define clear goals and objectives
A strategic job search is nothing without crystal-clear goals and objectives. Consider what you're looking for in your next opportunity. Ask yourself some questions to determine your goals.
Here’s some example to get you started:
- Are there any particular areas within accounting and finance where I want to specialize?
- What level of responsibility and seniority am I seeking in my next role?
- What type of organization or company culture aligns with my values and career aspirations?
- What are my long-term career goals, and how does the next step align with them?
- What salary range am I targeting, considering my experience and market rates?
Setting specific and measurable goals will guide your actions and align your efforts with your ultimate career vision.
Identify any skill gaps and start upskilling
Seek out certifications or specialized training programs to enhance your knowledge in line with your answers to the previous questions, and stay current with industry trends. With rapid changes in technology and regulations, continuous learning is essential, and the Canadian accounting and finance community thrives on professionals who demonstrate ongoing development.
Stay organized
Staying organized is crucial for effective job searching.
Create a job application tracker using what works for you. Use a spreadsheet, set up email alerts, utilize task management tools - whatever helps you to stay on top of deadlines and follow-ups.
Additionally, maintaining a centralized folder for documents and logging all communication with employers ensures easy access and timely responses.
Remember, there's no right way to stay organized – the key is to find a method that works best for you.
Follow Up
Applicants who follow up on their applications are 65% more likely to be considered, so after submitting applications, don't wait passively for a response.
Set yourself apart by actively following up and demonstrating your continued interest.
Take the initiative to send a personalized email or make a phone call to inquire about the status of your application.
Be polite, concise, and professional in your communication.
Express your enthusiasm for the opportunity and reiterate your qualifications.
Following up shows your proactive approach and can significantly increase your chances of being considered for the position.
Develop a support system
Don't underestimate the power of seeking guidance and support from mentors, peers, or recruitment agencies - more than 80% of professionals believe that mentors play a crucial role in career development.
Developing a support system, including working with recruiters, is crucial for accounting and finance professionals aiming to elevate their job search. By engaging with reputable recruitment agencies, professionals can access valuable industry insights, networking opportunities, and guidance tailored to their career goals.
Regular communication with recruiters fosters strong connections and enables them to match professionals with suitable job openings. Leveraging recruiters' networks and seeking their career guidance can significantly enhance the job search process.
If you're finding it challenging to find job opportunities that align with your goals and job search strategy, consider connecting with a recruiter like us. We have extensive industry knowledge, a wide network of connections, and access to hidden job opportunities that aren’t advertised publicly.
Working with a recruiter can significantly enhance your job search by matching you with relevant positions and helping you navigate the application and interview process. In fact, research shows that job seekers who work with recruiters are 30% more likely to land a new role faster than those who solely rely on traditional job search methods.