Mavenology.

FEELING THAT ITCH TO TRY SOMETHING NEW?

Maybe you’re reading this article because there’s something inside of you telling you it’s time to make a move. But before you get to where you want to go, you need to understand where you’re coming from. And for that reason, we’ve crafted the perfect checklist to prepare you for or refine your job search. As you sift through these questions, an obvious answer might jump out – for others, you might need to dig a little deeper. So, break out your pen and paper (or let’s be real, your iPhone or iPad), because this is an interactive article!  

1. Why Are You Looking for A New Role?

For some, an external force might be driving your job search. Or perhaps it’s just a gut feeling you have, a thought that has been growing bigger and bigger in the back of your head. Maybe you’ve been with your company for five years and want to see what’s out there; maybe you want to try a new industry, shorten your commute, or you’re simply seeking a greater challenge. Regardless of the reason, be sure it’s clear what’s motivating you to look for something new.  

2. What Are Your Responsibilities in Your Current Role?

This might be tedious, and the list probably goes on and on, but trust me, it’s important. You do a lot in your role – I know you do! And sometimes it’s easy to forget just how much you do. When I’m talking with someone who is looking to make a career move, I always ask them to make a mental pie chart of their responsibilities. What are your main “pie pieces” and how much time are you giving to each? When you break it down this way, you might realize that 85% of your time is going towards scheduling (and rescheduling). Or you might discover that Office Manager piece is taking up more of your time than you originally thought. Either way, this pie chart helps us answer our next two questions.  

3. What Is Your Favorite Part of Your Role?

What lights you up? What energizes you? Which piece of your pie chart brings you the most fulfillment? Think about this. Yes, it could be project management or event planning. Or maybe it’s providing EQ support to your Executive, ghost-writing on his/her behalf, or who knows, maybe you love travel coordination! Whatever it is, identify what you love about your role, and make it a goal to keep that piece of pie (and maybe even increase it) in your next move.  

4. What Is Your Least Favorite Part of Your Role?

Okay, so realistically, some of these things are unavoidable. Chances are, you will always have to reschedule meetings, cancel flights, etc. But maybe you realized that 40% of your time is going to office management duties, and you really want to focus on your EA role. It could be that you’re supporting seven executives and feel spread too thin. Or maybe you’ve realized that HR is where your heart belongs and it’s time to let go of the admin piece. Again, identify whatever you don’t love about your role, and make it a goal to decrease it in your next move.  

5. What Intangibles Are Important to You?

This could be so many things. Think of this question in terms of both the Executive that you are supporting as well as the company you are joining. Do you appreciate a warm office culture that works hard and laughs harder? Maybe you know that direct communication is important to you – you like having clear objectives and goals, so you know you wouldn’t do well working with a “mad scientist” type of Executive.  

6. What’s Important to You in A Company?

Industry, size, stability, funding, leadership, innovation, benefits, mission, location… the options are endless. Before you take on this question, take a step back and consider the bigger picture because the company you work for will have major implications on your everyday life. I’m sure we all have wish-lists that run long, but let’s narrow it down to the things that truly matter. So, tell me, what are the three most important things to you in a company?  

7. What Are You Hoping Gain in Your Next Role?

There is no wrong answer here, so don’t be shy. It is totally okay to say that you want more money. More responsibility. Maybe you’re looking for a change in title. When you think about taking the next step in your career, don’t be afraid to look one or two steps ahead and visualize your life in ten years. Your next role doesn’t have to be your forever role! Or maybe you don’t want to look ten years ahead and you are just looking for a role where you can wear jeans to work. To that I say, cheers!  

8. What Are Your Non-Negotiables?

All right, this is an important question. Whether it’s compensation, PTO, or only supporting one executive, whatever it is, BE CLEAR – both with yourself and the companies you are interviewing with. Nothing is worse than getting to the offer stage of a role and then having it fall through because you weren’t communicating your needs and expectations. Maybe you found your dream company in Mountain View, but last-minute you decide that the commute really isn’t doable for your lifestyle and you decline the offer. That’s a lose/lose situation, my friends. Know your non-negotiables prior to going into your search.  

9. Are You Ready to Put the Time and Commitment into Interviewing?

Let’s be honest here: interviewing can be exhausting. And if your company doesn’t know that you are looking, it can mean having to get creative with why you’re popping out of the office or why you have so many “appointments.” Interview processes can also move surprisingly quickly at times. So the question is, are you truly ready should the stars align?

10. What Are You Waiting For?

You’re ready? Great! Let’s get this ball rolling! If you’re looking to take some of the legwork out of this process, look no further. Maven has an amazing team of recruiters who will serve you amazing opportunities on a silver platter, all while walking you through the process, prepping you for interviews and setting you up for major success in finding your dream role! Check out our website here to see some of the exciting roles we are working on. We look forward to working with you!

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Written by: Julia Francis