Looking for a job can be a daunting and sometimes frustrating task. It's hard when there are not enough appropriate jobs to apply for or when you don't get a response to your application. If you don't hear back, it may be because you are applying for the wrong roles, and rather than you not being right for the job, perhaps the job wasn't right for you.
What You Want
Write a list of exactly what you are looking for in a job and what is important to you. Think about what you liked in your old job--and sometimes more importantly, what you didn't--and take note before starting your search.
Reasons for Leaving
Keep in mind your final reason for wanting to leave your old job. You don't want to perpetuate the cycle by applying for a job that is going to cause you the same old disappointments or frustrations.
Location
Think about where you want to work and how you will commute there. If the cost will be prohibitive or it will take hours to commute, you may need to reconsider whether it is actually worth applying to that particular job.
Flex Time
If you often have family commitments during the work week, it's worth finding out if the company you're applying to offers flex time (the option to work from home) before you submit your application.
Salary
You may need to take a pay cut in order to land the job you want, and you'll have to think about whether you're prepared to do that. At the other end of the scale, is your prospective job going to pay you the amount you deserve? If not, you may want to think twice about applying.
Networking
Networking can be a vital tool in searching for a job. Connecting with others in your industry will make you aware of other opportunities and possibilities in your chosen field. You never know when attending a networking event may lead to your dream job.
Speculative Applications
Identify and target employers you think would be most valuable in your job search. Outline a speculative cover letter and adapt it to suit each company for the purpose of inquiring whether they have any vacancies. Attach your resume; hopefully the company will keep it on file in case any suitable roles should arise.
Interview
Have a friend help you with your interviewing technique. Research some popular interview questions and decide what your answers would be if these questions were asked of you. Then have your friend mock-interview you, and allow the friend to offer feedback and advice on your answers. This will also give you an opportunity to practice out loud, rather than just in your own head.
Presentation
If you are lucky enough to reach the interview stage, how you present yourself is very important. Be sure to smile often and be well-dressed. It's always better to be overdressed than underdressed. Be on the safe side with your clothes, rather than making any brash fashion statements at this stage of the game.
Patience and Positivity
Finding the perfect job often takes time. It can be a matter of luck, but it's also important to do your research and prepare yourself and your resume for the time when the perfect opportunity presents itself. Try not to spend every waking moment on the job hunt; it's important to have some downtime, too, so that you can feel refreshed and rejuvenated in your continued search.
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