Getting your dream job is not easy. One needs to exert a lot of effort in searching using all forms of medium available. It is vital to research companies you are interested in working with and seeing if they have a competitive package. Keep in mind that you can be selective as an applicant and make sure that you will be part of an organization that shares the same mission, vision, and values as you do. Here are some tips you can use to ensure a smooth journey towards a better career.

1. Know how to benchmark properly

It is an unspoken rule never to divulge the numbers written on your paycheck. Your salary should be between you and your employer. However, if you are a newbie and do not know much about your pay rate, it is best to do a bit of research. HR Consulting Companies often release a salary report stating the rates per level and industry.

BusinessTrends releases an annual salary guide available for everyone’s reference and accessible on our website.

2. Be prepared for the battle 

As famously stated in Sun Tzu’s novel, Art of War: If you know the enemy and know yourself, you need not fear the result of a hundred battles. Before heading off to a job interview, make sure that you are equipped with everything you need to know. Be knowledgeable about the job qualifications and see how these match your skills. Be aware that you are not the only candidate applying for the same position. Depending on the nature of the job, every job opening receives hundreds of applications. Getting an invitation for an interview gives you an advantage over the others, but don’t forget about the stiff competition. Always check how you can highlight your best assets to ensure that you are more qualified for the job.

3. Effort is the Key

Finding a good and stable job that pays well entails a lot of effort. Job hunters need to be resourceful. In a time where anyone can access information, you must learn how to filter data. Job postings must be thoroughly reviewed and evaluated before submitting an application.

Visiting the company website can also be utilized since some companies do not make use of job portals. This allows you to know more about the company. Going traditional is also a good option. Cold calling and asking for job openings is again an opportunity to speak to the company’s HR department, ask questions about the job openings, and know more about the company.

Always remember, job hunting must be taken seriously. This early-stage should serve as a training ground and learning process. Applicants who are well-prepared and knowledgeable about the job have a greater chance of getting hired.