Trying to get a foothold in a new job marketplace

Job hunting can sometimes feel like we are stumbling through the dark. Trying to navigate our way through a process that may be unfamiliar or different to what we are used to.

Recently, a community member asked for some help with getting a foothold in a new job marketplace

‘I just wanted to ask for your opinion. I just recently migrated here in Melbourne last March 2017. … I have been in the wholesale electricity spot market. In Melbourne, I am planning to restart my career again by applying for an energy spot market position. I would like to know where to start? I have been in interview with some energy companies here but no job offer yet. Hope you give me your thoughts on this. Thank you in advance.’

So my ‘off-the-cuff’ suggestions are:

1. Do a LinkedIn search for people who may be hiring managers for the types of jobs you are looking for.

2. Write an introductory message to them that is personalised and begins with why they are a good option, what it is they do, what they are wanting to achieve by getting in touch, ask if the recipient the right person to speak to and if not can they let them know who, and lastly let them know they will be calling within the next week to have a brief conversation . It needs to be punchy.

3. If English is your second language have someone who is fluent in written English check it over for you. First impressions count.

4. Then follow-through with a phone call. If the person responds and passes them onto someone else you then have a soft introduction as you can now say ‘XX suggested I get in touch’.

5. Try and get in front of the person face-to-face. Ask if they could meet you for a coffee. That’s usually a 30-minute slot.

Most of all its about getting out there and applying for a job, talking to lots of people and building your network.

Does anyone else have other thoughts?

About Catherine

Catherine is proud of her 15+ years of experience at the coalface of getting the best out of employees and organisations. As an independent executive coach and change management specialist, her aim is to help individuals and organisations create the best possible working life they can.

In an era of increasing competitiveness, an always-on culture and the pressure to create a personal brand within your career can be quite overwhelming to keep up. You may find yourself yearning for a different career. Or looking to reduce your stress, recommit to work and experience a culture that fosters your abilities but you are unsure how to make that happen.

We spend too much time at work and invest too much of our self-worth within work to settle for a career or organisation that doesn’t bring out our best. Lost productivity costs $33 billion dollars annually Australia.

Don’t allow your career or organisation to be defined by increased job insecurity, ambivalence to success or settling for less than your full potential. Catherine has worked with many organisations and individuals that are seeking the best out of their career for personal and professional satisfaction. And she can help you too.

FlexCareers offers a FREE 30-minute introductory meeting with our FlexCoaches, to help you establish if coaching is right for you. You can contact Catherine through FlexCareers here, and you can find out more about her practice, The Salary Coach, here.