Potential relationship? Potential career? Same rules apply..

In the spirit of Valentine's Day (and because we aren't at liberty to give dating advice) here are three steps to find your dream job, relationship style.

1. Get Online

The internet isn't just for dating these days. Tear yourself away from Tinder and start a different kind of online dating- career matchmaking! Trawling company profiles on LinkedIn might not be as fun as thoroughly assessing (mocking) any potential suitors on 'Plenty of Fish', but it is the first step towards meeting your dream job. If you haven't already, make a LinkedIn account and edit your profile to reflect the strengths of your CV. Follow relevant companies and groups and send invitations to connect to people you know, have worked with in the past and would like to work with in the future. The same goes for other social media sites, like Twitter, Facebook and if you have a blog. Look on jobs boards and register with recruitment companies to gain access to all the jobs out there (some will only advertise with one platform) and you'll have a whole list of potential positions in no time. 

2. Make The First Step

You know when you first meet (or match) with someone and there is that awkward period where neither one of you knows whether to make a move? Well the same applies to job searching. If you connect with a company that aren't currently advertising positions it doesn't mean you can't get in touch with them. Be brave and make the first step, even if it's just a quick email to say hi and explain your situation. But, you know when someone has messaged you and before you even get a chance to reply they have sent you another gazillion messages and it's just so sad and pathetic you want to cry? Well, that applies to job searching too. If you apply for a job online, through a recruitment company or jobs board, you need to be patient and wait for them to get in touch with you. Once you've sent your application wait for them make contact- desperate 'what's going on?' messages are a massive turn off. Same goes for casual 'Hi, I exist' emails- don't hound them. Play it cool. The general rule of thumb is to wait at least a week before follow up emails (in the business world- in the dating world if it's been a week, give up. Sorry.)

3. Don't Play Mind Games - Just Be Honest.

I personally think all aspects of life would be a lot less complicated if more people lived by this motto, but it's especially relevant when it comes to your career. There is no point trying to be clever with your employer or potential employer. Don't try and outsmart them by sending bulk applications to save time, being aloof by not replying to emails or using some ridiculous reverse psychology to make them realise it's really YOU they want to hire. It doesn't work in love- it won't work in life. Be honest with your interviewer (and yourself) about your wants and needs from your job. If something isn't compatible it's better to know sooner rather than later so don't rush in to anything. You wouldn't marry someone if you didn't like (fine, love) them, so don't sign a contract if you have doubts about it. I'm not saying the interviewers have to meet your whole family first, but take your time and don't try and convince yourself you're more interested in a role than you are. It's ok to be selfish and picky when it comes to your career- it's your life after all.