So, you’re on your quest to find your passion and your purpose?
Do you want a job, vocation, or career that you love?
Here, Chad gives you some simple, practical ways to finally make that leap.
Before we get started, though, understand that this is not going to be a quick process. While getting just any job might not be a challenge (especially in today’s market), getting that dream job you’re after is going to require some effort. So set aside some time and expect to put in some work.
FIND COMPANIES DOING WHAT YOU WANT TO DO
When pursuing their dream jobs, a lot of people start with job boards like LinkedIn or Indeed and apply for as many roles as possible. I would not recommend this, as it will likely not get you where you really want to go in the end. You have no real knowledge about the companies you’re applying to, the people you would be working with, or the leadership you would be under. You are also not specifically targeting the job you want. I would challenge you to think a little deeper and aim a little higher.
Instead of applying en masse to jobs online, think about exactly what it is you want to do and who is doing it. Ask yourself:
– What companies do I want to work with?
– Who is in the space where I want to be?
Reverse engineer your career search by starting with the end in mind. Evaluate where you want to be and how to get there. What companies do I know that are the best at what I want to do? Dig in, research, and figure it out. Options for research online are unlimited – take advantage of them all. LinkedIn is an excellent tool if you need somewhere to start – utilize it to find and follow companies in your chosen field.
FIND PEOPLE DOING WHAT YOU WANT TO DO
Next, find the most talented people currently doing the work that you want to do and get in front of them. The best way to do this is to think about who you already know.
– Do you know someone who works at a company in your chosen field?
– Do you know someone who is connected with a person who does what you want to do?
If so, don’t be afraid to simply ask them to make an introduction.
Once an introduction has been made, shoot for an easy ask: request a 15-minute coffee, a few minutes together at the office, a phone call, a video call, or even ask if you can pick their brain via email.
Then, ask about their career: how did they get where they are, what do they do every day, ask about their company and how it works, and ask them for any relevant advice, wisdom, or connections as you move forward in your pursuit.
Finally, stay connected with them – in person and online. Follow them on LinkedIn, follow their organization (and similar organizations), and stay on top of any opportunities that arise.
If you don’t personally know anyone in your field, find people on LinkedIn who are doing what you want to do and connect with/follow them and begin to interact.
FIND RELEVANT PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZATIONS
Once you’ve found the companies and people who are doing what you want to do, start seeking out related professional organizations or groups that you can get involved with. Most fields have industry-specific groups that you can join or be a part of – find one in your area and/or online, and you’ll begin to meet people doing what you want to do.
Approach the groups with humility and an open mind and try to learn as much as you can. Begin to connect with other members and ask them what they do. You will be surprised at how many doors will open to you if you approach others with respect and stay actively involved.
In summary, while you can apply to jobs online, I would recommend a more targeted approach if you’re after that elusive dream job.
I would focus mainly on trying to network by getting in front of the people that are inside the companies you want to work with and for, as well as the people that are actually doing the work on a day-to-day basis that you seek to do. Engage respectfully, learn everything you can, and find an open door.
Want to learn more? Contact us at chad@affinitysearchpartners.com. We would love to partner with you as you search for a career you love.