Finding the right role can transform your career, but it isn’t always easy to land the perfect position. Job hunting can be tough and it can be tempting to settle for the less than the ideal employer. But before you do, consider the following:
Am I passionate about the role?
It might be a cliché, but if you’re passionate about what you do, you’ll work harder, be happier and have a much greater chance of excelling. Of course, it’s unrealistic for everyone to try to follow their favourite sportsperson, but instead requires a more nuanced introspection and deciding the kind of company that you feel passionate about working for, and what aspects of a job you find interesting and motivating.
For example, you might find working for a smaller company more fulfilling than a big corporate. Or you may love managing a team. Some people like interacting with different people all day, while others prefer to deep dive into a problem in isolation. Consider your preferences and if a job doesn’t allow you to pursue those, then it’s probably not right for you.
Does it maximise my skills and expertise?
Expertise and passion sometimes point to one and the same thing, but it is usually more complicated. While passion is defined as something that motivates or interests, or that gives a sense of achievement, expertise points more to your skills. You can be passionate about something, without being particularly skilled in it, which is why sometimes it’s necessary to compromise when it comes to your career.
In this situation, you may find that there is a way to combine your passion and your skills, by working in the right company or industry. For example, if you are passionate about cars but don’t have the skills to be an auto designer, you could still look to join an auto company in the marketing or finance departments – giving you the best of both worlds.
Does the environment suit my style of working?
Each of us has an environment in which we work better and thrive. While one person performs better in a team environment, another will seek out solo work. Some love to be in a buzzing, fast-moving company, while others like somewhere quieter and more considered. And while you can become accustomed to one or the other, there will always be a certain way of working that you find more fulfilling.
So, before taking on a position, find out about the work environment and whether this is the right for you. That means asking the right questions and looking for signs when you go for an interview. You could also try calling someone in your network who has a similar role to find out about how it fits with your personality and way of working.
Setting priorities and boundaries
When looking for a position that suits you, consider your goals and priorities, then make sure you stick to those criteria. As you start to explore the market, you may be swayed by tempting opportunities or offers, but it’s important to remember what will really make you happy and fulfilled in your career. Don’t be scared to be forthright about your priorities and boundaries, both with recruiters and potential employers.
Psychometric and other testing
If you’re not sure what kind of job or environment best suits your personality, then psychometric tests can help give you an idea. These assessments will ask you questions such as:
- Do you enjoy being at the centre of the action or prefer to work behind the scenes?
- Do you enjoy brainstorming with a group or thinking things through on your own?
- Do you prefer to talk or to listen?
- Are you predictable or spontaneous?
- Do you respond better to competition or does it make you less productive?
If you’re looking for your next challenge in finance or audit, then Send Us Your CV, or Search Jobs to find out about the roles we currently have available.
Our Renaix Guide to Recruitment for Audit and Finance Professionals provides information on trends in the industry.
Similar posts: Hiring And Management Advice, Attract Quality Employees To Your Company, Relocation And Country Information
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