These days, there are many directions to go in when you are searching for your next career move. Once, the majority of executive-minded people flocked to the corporate world to seek success. Now you can choose to work for a startup company, a small business, go into the non-profit sector, even start your own business.
What Are You Looking For
If you’re not sure what type of company is the best fit for you and your skills, you need to ask yourself a questions. Here are a few:
- Do you have an entrepreneurial spirit? Does the idea of helping to shape a business from the ground up sound exciting?
- Do you want to feel like an important part of a small, established group? Do you look for a better connection with your customers and coworkers?
- Are you passionate about an environmental or social issue? Is making an impact more important to you than a big paycheck?
- Do you want to be able to move up through the ranks and become a key member of an executive team? Do you thrive in a structured environment and look forward to promotions and raises?
Do Your Research
Once you have a clearer picture of what type of company is the best fit for you, the next step is to seek out the companies that need the skills you have to offer. Do your research. Look at the companies of the people in your LinkedIn network. Do any of those companies appeal to you? Make a list and start doing some research.
Job Postings
Job postings are a good place to start to see if the companies you are targeting have a need for the skills you bring to the table. Don’t stop there, though. Just because a suitable position is not listed doesn’t mean the company is not in need.
Network
If you have someone in your network in the company, find out if there is an unlisted position available. If you don’t, find out whom at the company you need to contact about available positions. That can be done with a phone call or an email. Once you make contact, start asking questions. Is there a department with some weak spots? How can you use your skill set to help strengthen it? Make a plan and then make your pitch.
Startups
If the startup scene is what you’re targeting, find out what you can through online research about the companies that interest you. Look at the skills you can bring in that can help get the company off the ground and help it attain a greater level of success. Again, form a plan and make your pitch.
You have worked hard to build up your skills. Make sure you also focus your effort to target the company that will make the most of what you can offer and offers you the best in exchange.