What to Think About When You Start Looking for a New Role

Think it’s time to change jobs? Don’t make the change until you’ve considered what it means to leave your current role. At Michael Page, we speak to people every day who are unhappy in their jobs and help advise them on the next steps. Here is what we tell people.

Too many people look for a new opportunity before considering why it’s time to move. Any good agency (and prospective new employer) will need to understand your true motives in order to assess whether they could be right for you. Write it down. Make a list. Decide which elements you feel must change and which elements you'd simply like to change.

Do you really want to leave your current role, or do you think you might able to persuade your current employer to make the right changes in order to keep you? Quite often, simply raising concerns early will lead to them doing their best to tackle the issues, and if they can't, at least you know ahead of time.

Yes, the market is super hot for certain skill sets in the Bay Area, but stay realistic, as many people are interviewing. Your friends will tell you they moved for a 50% increase in the base, but don’t believe everything they say. Think about what you need to make a move, and make sure you consider all elements of the package that are important to you.

The Bay Area typically sees people move for between a 5-18% increase on base. This varies depending on other benefits, but try to think about what you must have in order to move, and communicate this as early as possible. This sets expectations early, saves time and ensures a simple, pain-free negotiation should you be offered the role.

Moving employers doesn't always equate to higher compensation, so make sure you do your due diligence. Otherwise, you may find yourself surrounded by exactly the same issues you hoped to escape.

You're competing to be seen in a highly competitive market. Personalize your resume to each application you make, and try to highlight your own, personal achievements. Find out here how to write a winning resume.

Ask what your consultant’s track record is, and ensure they truly understand the market they operate in. If they can't give you the details you need on the company you're interested in, it'll lessen your chances of getting an offer.

Without fail, our clients’ biggest frustration is people who do not research a company before they arrive for the interview. Research the company, check out their website(s) and think about how your experience and skills fit the role and the organization. Think about questions that you might be asked and prepare answers for these questions. If you were interviewing someone for this role, what questions would you ask? It’s also worth researching current trends and news within your sector. Find out here the best ways to prepare for an interview.

You think you're good, we think you're good, but who have you worked for who knows you're great? A solid reference from someone you worked for increases your chance of securing an interview significantly. Speak to old employers (even customers if you can) before you engage a search – if nothing else, they can give you advice on the best way to search and provide a sounding board for some of the issues you currently face. Get advice here on selecting and preparing references.

Recruiters (at agencies or in-house) aren't mind readers, and we genuinely like feedback. Share what you're thinking, good and bad, and help us get you the ideal role.

Look here for more advice about when to take the next career step.

If you’re looking for help finding the perfect role for you, contact a Michael Page recruitment specialist now.