3 Ways to Get a Better Job

3 Ways to Get a Better Job 3 Ways to Get a Better Job 5A typical refrain over the past few years is that most people want to change jobs. Last year was no different. A Harris poll showed that almost 80 percent of 20-somethings desire a career switch. Those in their 30s and 40s aren’t much happier with their current positions, with 64 percent and 54 percent, respectively, wanting something different. It’s one thing to crave it, but how do you get it? Consider these three ways to get a better job: Start with New Vision If you work for someone else, whether in-house or remotely, now is the time to schedule an intense goal-setting session with your manager. Jennifer Folsom of Summit Consulting suggests that this may be the only time all year that you’ll have your supervisor’s undivided attention. If you’re not happy with your job, setting achievable, clearly defined goals can be a way to jump-start your way to a new position within your current company. If you have an office position, keep flexible work arrangements in mind as one option that might make a difference in your job satisfaction. Don’t Blow the Interview It’s hard to change jobs without jumping through the interview hoop. Since you know you must do it, it’s smart to prepare for it- and know what to avoid. To get a better job this year, executive coach and speaker Mark Goulston recommends taking care to dodge these common interview missteps: Not being informed on anything about the company that’s available online Not listening carefully enough and then giving an answer to something that the interviewer didn’t ask Blaming anyone or anything other than yourself for something Talking so quickly that you cause the interviewers to think that you haven’t thoughtfully considered what they are saying Be Open to Options Sometimes a better job might be right in your own backyard- literally. While it seems logical to think career dissatisfaction means you must move to another position or company, it’s possible that you could be happier at work simply by gaining more flexibility and control over where and when you get things done. Consider telecommuting jobs and other flexible job opportunities. And don’t assume your employer won’t be open to it- research from Catalyst has proven flexible work arrangements are the new normal, with over 80 percent of companies surveyed globally offering flex options. So take charge of your career destiny, and take the steps needed to position yourself for greater success and happiness! Readers, what steps are you taking to get a better job?