Advancing in your career is not always easy. Searching for a job is a relatively time-consuming activity that is full of ups and downs. Disappointments are inevitable, but there are a few essential ingredients for a positive and successful job search.

Part 1: If you are unemployed, here are 5 things to keep in mind when looking for a job

1. Become aware of your abilities

You need to know your main strengths and motivations. What areas are you good at? What turns you on? To effectively promote your strengths and thus find a position that matches both your profile and your level of experience, it is essential to know your skills well. Be clear and specific in your search to find a position that matches both your skills and your future goals.

2. Be organized

You need to develop a program, be organized, and give a clear direction to your research. Throughout this period, try to set specific milestones and assign yourself specific tasks. This can take the form of daily or weekly goals. These can, for example, relate to a number of applications sent or professional contacts. Note the deadlines by which your applications must be sent. Also, keep a file listing all the positions you have applied for and all the companies you have come into contact with. Be sure to keep job advertisements, job descriptions, and contact details so that you can refer to them later.

3. Make use of your network

Everyone needs a little help at one time or another. Engage your network to discover new opportunities and apply when the opportunity arises. Ask those around you about possible positions and ask your former colleagues or managers if they would agree to recommend you or to be called if references are made. You can also register with a recruitment firm. Recruitment consultants have solid experience in the field, an extensive network, and real market expertise. They will therefore be able to support you throughout your job search.

4. Use the internet efficiently

The Internet offers a multitude of research channels and opportunities. Be sure to use this valuable tool optimally. Make sure that your CV is posted on the main sites and regularly check the various job sites in order to target the vacancies that may be of interest to you. Social networks are also a source not to be overlooked: follow the companies that interest you on Twitter, and complete and update your LinkedIn profile regularly.

5. Adopt a positive attitude

It’s easier said than done, but try to be optimistic and motivated throughout your job search. Learn how to learn from a refusal and how to bounce back. During the interview, the recruiter will attach as much importance to your personality and your attitude as to your skills, therefore be smiling, positive and dynamic.

Part 2: tips in finding a job while being employed

Fancy a new professional challenge? It is not easy to find a job while working. You don’t want to disturb anyone in your current job, but also want to have enough time to find the job of your dreams. The tips below will be very helpful to you.

Some people are just burnt out and exhausted with their current job that they want to leave immediately but cannot risk becoming jobless. This article is what you need to keep yourself straight in finding another job while feeling miserable in your current job.

Do you like your job without being passionate about it? Perhaps it is not the content of your job but your boss or your colleagues that is bothering you? It is high time to find a new challenge.

In a perfect world, you quit and pull your plan until you’ve found the job of your dreams. In reality, you have to earn your crust and such a decision should not be taken lightly.

The following tips will help you find a balance between your current job and your search for a new challenge.

1. Avoid shouting from the rooftops that you are looking for a new job

You might feel like you have to tell your boss, but be aware that this also gives them the chance to find a replacement before you find anything new. Inform as few people as possible about your plans, as even the colleague with whom you get along best may not be able to hold their tongue.

2. Don’t neglect your work

Otherwise, your boss and coworkers may notice that you are busy with other tasks. This can lead to a degradation of your relationship or even to a dismissal.

3. Ask for discretion

If your boss is not yet aware of your approach, ask your potential employers to exercise discretion. Even if it seems strange at first, they will certainly understand your request. If you don’t, it’s likely that companies will find out about you from your current employer, and that could backfire.

4. Keep a cool head

You are likely to receive phone calls or even have to go through job interviews during your working hours. Make sure your coworkers have no reason to be suspicious of anything. If a recruiter contacts you, only pick up your phone during your breaks or after work hours and schedule interviews on your days off. If that’s not possible, pack a change of clothes in your car and change at a neighborhood café before heading to your interview.

5. Do not look for a job during your working hours

Also, don’t get recommended by someone in your current company. In addition to being disrespectful to your employer, the chance that you will be caught ‘in the act’ also increases. Finally, do not print your CV at your workplace. If it falls into the wrong hands, the consequences could prove fatal.

6. Found a new job? Opt for a professional attitude

It’s not easy to tell your boss and coworkers that you are going elsewhere. Be correct and let everyone know well in advance. Suggest accompanying and training your successor. Finally, work hard or even more than usual during your last days with the company. This professional attitude will be appreciated and will work in your favor.