Landing the dream job

“The Ultimate Dream Job”. That perfect, once in a lifetime opportunity that matches your talents, experience and aspirations. It seems we are always on the lookout for this golden offer, but how do you actually make it happen?

Teagan Criddle, Manager of Integrated Services at Energy Resourcing recently spoke to Oil and Gas Australia about securing your dream role.

“Obviously, you need to be proactive in order to secure the dream job. Organisations are competing for talent, so there are still candidate shortages in specific disciplines such as flow assurance and process engineering, but this is no reason to just expect employers to come knocking.”

Before looking at roles, research companies, as they may offer entirely different options such as career advancement, remuneration, or flexibility.

There are four main ways to get your dream job. First, by searching and applying for existing, advertised roles, secondly by going through an agency, third by networking and submitting expressions of interests for a role to be created and finally, by being promoted or shifted internally.

Teagan’s main advice for searching is to use flexible search terms. “Many candidates have a fairly constricted view of how their dream job will be described.” Try expanding key words and descriptions, as well as seemingly stringent expectations like years of experience. For the right candidate, companies can offer a great deal of flexibility. When you do apply, make sure your CV has covered off these key words (including locations and Capex value of projects worked on), to make it as easy as possible for recruiters to see that you are perfectly matched for this role.

Your search will bring up both agency and company advertisements, so it is important to be aware of applying for the same role multiple times. Engaging an agent can be a highly effective way of finding the ultimate role. If the agency has an effective, well organised database, they are able to quickly and successfully match a role with the ideal candidate. Agencies can also take much of the leg work out of applying for jobs, and can act on your behalf during complex contract negotiations.

Networking is vital as it can lead to gaining valuable contacts that you can submit an expression of interest to. “It is far more effective to have a specific person you can send your resume to, and create a dialogue with. This means they can give you heads up when jobs might be opening up, or advice as to the type of roles they and other companies might be offering in the future.” Traditional networking, such as events and professional associations are important, but Teagan also advises candidates to embrace new options.

“Online networking is such a valuable tool. 80% of companies now use LinkedIn as a recruitment method. Also, interactive new media such as Digg, and hundreds of industry blogs, offer you a chance to get your name out there by commenting on articles, posting new information, and recommending sources. Recruiters and prospective employers do look at these sites, so get involved.”

The final way to secure your dream job is internally. “A myth about permanent work is that tenure equals career development. Candidates still have to prove themselves and show passion towards their work.” A lot of the time, you can still expect to submit an application and go through the interview process. During the interview, it is important to use many examples, keywords, and clearly outline your role in team achievements.

Overall, candidates should ensure that they are enthusiastic, and patient. In Teagan’s experience, that perfect dream job, doesn’t just present itself at the perfect time, so, “You need to be ready to pounce on the opportunity.”