Overwhelmed by your job search? Let's break it down into 7 simple steps.

Searching for a new procurement or supply chain job can be overwhelming at the best of times. You need only throw a global pandemic into the mix, and you've got a recipe for a job-hunting disaster.

It's understandable if the additional burden of these tumultuous times is making the whole process seem unmanageable. But rest assured that you are not alone and know that you can take several practical steps that will give you the confidence and motivation needed to reboot your job search.

Let's begin by addressing why you're feeling stressed (COVID-19 aside). The chances are that it's down to one, if not several, of the following reasons:

• You applied for a job a while ago and haven't heard back.

• You had an interview some time ago and haven't heard back.

• You've been out of work, and your funds are running low.

• You're unhappy in your current role and want to move on as quickly as possible.

• You've had some rejections recently, and it's making you increasingly anxious about ever finding a job.

• You have some gaps in your career history.

• You feel guilty at the thought of leaving your current role and letting down your colleagues and manager.

• You're concerned that you don't have the right skill set to advance your career.

• You check the relevant job boards every day, but new job advertisements are few and far between.

Whichever concerns plague you the most, it can help break down the process into a handful of easily-managed steps.

1.      Sort out the basics

Candidates jump through a series of hoops, from writing cover letters and filling in application forms to attending interviews and assessment exercises. Much of this process involves waiting for recruiters and employers to get in touch, leading to increased stress.

Take back a portion of control by writing yourself a to-do list of the things you can get done right away. This might include:

• Updating your CV.

• Updating your LinkedIn profile.

• Writing tailored cover letters for every application.

• Making a list of your most significant achievements, key skills, and qualifications.

• Making a list of your priorities – e.g., benefits package, workplace culture, office location, level of seniority, compensation, etc.

• Making a list of dealbreakers – e.g., companies you wouldn't want to work for, responsibilities you don't want, etc.

• Re-connecting with useful contacts via email or LinkedIn.

• Lining up your references.

• Setting up job alerts online.

Be mindful not to overthink the process of updating your CV, social media profiles, and cover letter. Ensure the information is up to date, highlights your most significant achievements and professional qualifications, and lists relevant and in-demand procurement or supply chain skills. There is no need to worry over a six-month employment gap or the time you spent working in a non-procurement-related field. These factors certainly won't be enough to hold you back, and it's always possible to frame the different experiences you've had in a positive light.

2.      Address your stress

No matter the urgency of your job hunt, it's essential to take the time to relax and unwind.

Draw-up a schedule that includes realistic networking, job application, and upskilling targets. Once you've ticked off your tasks for each day, allow your mind to switch off and focus your energy on doing something enjoyable. This might include regular exercise, catching up with friends, reading a book, or cooking.

You might find it helps to shut down your electronic devices in the evenings to keep you from checking your emails every five minutes.

When your job hunt makes you feel somewhat powerless, it's useful to confide in a friend or family member who can offer their support and advice. If you're at all concerned that your stress has evolved into a more serious mental health concern, such as anxiety or depression, be sure to seek help from a medical professional.

3.      Fit the role… but don't over-fit the role

After carefully consulting each job description, ensure that your application will reflect the employer's expectations. This is particularly important when it comes to showcasing your skillset.

It would be best if you were professional and polished, but don't fall into the trap of playing it too safe. Today, employers seek personality and diversity of thought as they seek an employee who ticks all the right boxes. It certainly can't hurt to be one of the more memorable candidates.

4.      Don't be a sell-out

Any idea where you'll be in a few months if you accept the first job offer that comes your way without careful consideration and due diligence?

That's right. Back where you started – adrift, stressed, and looking for a new role.

You don't have to strive for perfection – certainly not in this job climate. But you should set your standards high enough to ensure the role you accept aligns with your medium- to long-term career objectives. Can you see yourself learning and growing in this position? Do you imagine being happy with the workplace culture? If something doesn't feel right, there's probably a good reason. Trust your instincts and find a position that is worthy of your time, efforts, and expertise.

5.      Research and prepare

You don't need to have an interview lined up to start preparing. When the phone does ring (or the email inbox pings), you'll feel much more confident if you've already got a few week's preparations under your belt and have planned some answers to the most common interview questions.

Once you have an interview scheduled, learn everything you can about your prospective employer, leaving no stone unturned. What's the organization's history, what do they do, what is the brand's reputation, and what challenges are they currently facing? Once you know your interviewer's details, find out what you can about their time at the organization. Finally, come prepared to ask some thoughtful questions of your own that demonstrate your enthusiasm for the position and passion for the procurement or supply chain profession.

6.      Look for opportunities in all the right places

The most limiting thing you can do is restrict your job search to one or two channels. Procurement and supply chain are relatively niche professions, so you're unlikely to find all of the best job postings in one place. You'll need to have the following channels covered:

• Specialist online job boards like:  Supply Chain Spark

• Recruiting firms (Murdoch Mason and MRA Global)

• Individual company websites

• Your personal network

• Google job alerts

Remember that the number of unadvertised jobs is much higher than you might think, so leveraging your network and connections, including your former colleagues, employers, and LinkedIn connections, is perhaps the most critical route to pursue. You should even check in with your most trusted suppliers, who may have insights into procurement and supply chain job openings within their client base.

7.      Upskill as necessary

Use your downtime to focus on professional development. With a wealth of online resources at your disposal, there's no excuse not to brush up on your procurement and supply chain knowledge.

For every job description you read, make a note of the requirements. So you can work at plugging any gaps in your skillset, whether it's becoming proficient in using a specific program, honing your data analytics skills, or learning more about the latest software solutions out there. 

Similarly, many online courses have sprung up since the pandemic that are also worth considering. Everything from building your brand to building websites, learning how to write and speak better, or even something as simple as how to make better videos. With so many options available, you’d be giving yourself an advantage in the marketplace by gaining some know-how in these areas.