If you're not satisfied with your job, it may lead to unhappiness in other areas of your life. Changing careers is a huge step, and it can seem daunting, but it doesn't have to be! Below are some tips that you can use to see if it might be time for a career change, and what you can do to start taking steps in the right direction. 

Are You Satisfied in Your Current Role?

How do you know if it's time for a career change? If you feel like it might be time to start thinking about it, here are a few things you should consider. First, you should keep your happiness in mind. The reason many people seek new employment is because their interests or passions have changed. Next, ask yourself if you are happy in your current role. Think of it on a scale of one to ten. If you rank your happiness level anything less than an eight, it might be time to start looking for a change. 

The next thing you need to consider is what you need to be happy in a new position. Perhaps you need a better work-life balance or are looking for a more comprehensive benefits package. Maybe your current job doesn't have room to advance, or you feel like your skills aren't being put to good use. Whatever it is, it's important to identify exactly what is making you unhappy in your current role, so you can be sure that when you're looking for something new, all your needs are fulfilled. 

Show Off Your Skills

To help you find a position where you can be your best, it's important to show off your skills. But how can you show potential new employers that you're a great candidate? Start by updating your resume. Include all of your previous jobs and the major duties, responsibilities, and accomplishments in each role. In this case, the more specific, the better. Numbers and statistics that detail the results that you achieved can really impress potential employers.

It may also be smart to tweak the keywords in your resume so they match with the jobs you're applying for. Look for which skills employers are interested in and see how you can highlight those in your resume. If updating your resume seems a little overwhelming, there are services out there to help you craft the perfect one. 

In addition, keeping your LinkedIn page updated and fresh can help potential employers and recruiters find you. Also, make it a point to connect with people you meet at networking events, conferences, or other professional gatherings. You never know when you're shaking hands with someone who can help you get your dream job!

What Do You Need to Be Happy?

Going into work every day happy and ready to take on the job can help you be your best, most productive self. Doing this can put you on the path towards reaching your career goals. When looking for a new position, it's essential to make a list of the things that are most important to you in a role. These items can be related to both a company's culture and your skill set. When you're putting your skills and passions to good use, you have a recipe for success.

Once you have a definite list of what is most important to you in a job, you can use it as a tool to analyze the positions you want to interview for. This way, you can be sure they'll meet your needs. Job interviews are your opportunity to interview the company as well. While future employers are trying to determine if you're the right candidate for the job, you should be looking closely to make sure they're a fit for you as well.

Find A Career That Fulfills You

Everyone has an idea of their perfect job - one that they're excited to go to every day and proud to tell their friends and relatives about. This job exists, but it may take you a while to find it. Work to establish a solid network of friends and professional acquaintances who can notify you if they become aware of an open position. In the early stages of your career search, you may not want the word to get out that you're looking for a new position, so make sure your network is comprised of people you trust.

It can also be helpful to work with a staffing agency. Often, recruiters hear about new positions first. If you've established a relationship with them, they can alert you if they come across something that fits your niche and skillset. In many cases, these staffing agencies may get a hold of positions that aren't listed anywhere else. They can be a great resource to help connect you to potential opportunities. However, make sure this agency is highly rated and trustworthy. They should never be sending out your resume without your permission!

Finally, get in touch with previous supervisors and coworkers to ask if you can use them as references. Potential employers often require a list of these contacts during the final stages of the interview process. Having one ready will show them that you're prepared.

You deserve a job that makes you happy. Once you discover what you really need and want from your career, you can use these tips to help you take the steps towards finding your dream job. If you have any questions, or would like to get in touch with a recruiter, please contact us. For a list of available jobs, please view our current opportunities.