Finding a new career

Determine the source of your dissatisfaction with your current job.

If returning to work after the holidays has left you feeling unmotivated rather than energized, it may be time to make a change. But first, you must determine whether your dissatisfaction is temporary or seasonal.

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"January can certainly feel a bit flat after the holidays," says Corinne Mills, managing director of career coaching firm Personal Career Management. "However, if you've been thinking for a while that you need to make positive changes in your career, then it's unlikely to be a seasonal whim."

According to Mills, having time to unwind over Christmas often helps people decide what they want for the coming year. "Career dissatisfactions are frequently suppressed during the normal working week because you don't have time to think about them." But when you take a break, those unconscious thoughts come to the surface."

To make sure you're leaving for the right reasons, consider your options with your current employer, advises Andrew Fennell, director of CV writing service StandOut CV. "Decide what is making you unhappy in your role and contact your line manager to see if there are any opportunities for advancement that could improve your situation." "If they can't really give you what you want, maybe it's time to look elsewhere," he says.

Take the time to consider your options.

When you're stuck in a rut of a job you despise, it can be difficult to find the time and mental space to figure out what you want to do instead. Before you start looking for a new job or career, spend some time "getting to know yourself," according to Lis McGuire, founder of CV writing service Giraffe CVs. "It may appear difficult, uncomfortable, or uncertain, but it is worthwhile." You already have the answers; you just need to find them. Knowing what you truly desire will save you time, effort, and heartbreak in the long run."

"A typical 10-minute action could include emailing a contact who works in a field of interest; finding a local or online short course in an area you're interested in; and scheduling a call with a contact," she says. "Many people wait for the perfect free weekend when they can devote a significant amount of time to the change." In reality, small, consistent actions taken on a daily basis are the most beneficial."

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According to Jon Gregory, recruitment expert and editor of win-that-job.com, looking ahead to the end of the year can be beneficial when considering a new career. "What do you want to do for a job at that point?" Is this with your current or a new employer? Define your ideal while remaining realistic."

Conduct your research

When it comes to job hunting, the more information you have, the better equipped you will be to make a decision. "Make a wish list of what you want – and don't want," advises McGuire. "Research positions, talk to people who work in your target field, and get some work experience if possible."

Lydia Fairman, an HR specialist and the owner of Fairman Consulting, advises developing a strategy. "If you know what you have, what you want, and why you want it, you'll be able to quickly identify potential employers and companies that will deliver on your next career goals." She also recommends keeping track of who you've contacted and when so you can stay on top of everything.

Seek assistance

If you are having doubts about your current role or are unsure what to do next, it can be beneficial to discuss your options with a trusted advisor. "Find support, either through existing friends and family, coaches and mentors, or by connecting with people in the new fields you're interested in who may be happy to help you with their insights and knowledge," says Sophie Graham, a National Careers Service careers adviser.

Victoria McLean, founder of City CV, a CV writing and career coaching service, suggests using social media and events to find potential contacts in the industry you want to work in. "Join relevant LinkedIn groups, ask questions, and arrange coffee dates with people to conduct informational interviews." "Networking is the future," she says.

Concentrate on quality rather than quantity.

The arrival of a new year may have provided you with the impetus you require to find a new job. But, before you start applying for jobs in a frenzy, remember the value of a clean, well-edited application and CV. "Pay attention to quality," advises Fairman. "Tailor all applications, even speculative ones, to the company and job you're interested in." Avoid 'one click apply' buttons and fill out forms completely to demonstrate your commitment to each application," she advises.

Allow yourself plenty of time.

Once you've decided to leave, the often time-consuming process of finding a new job – and the rejection that comes with it – can be discouraging. Gregory believes it is critical to relieve stress. "Keep your motivation up by creating a realistic timetable for the next few months that will get you through the stages of searching, applying, interviewing, and serving your notice." That could take up to four months, or even longer for some, so don't beat yourself up on day two because you don't have a new job yet," he says.