I am the Refactor Talent Head of Delivery, Jen Beatty, and the best part about what I do is getting to help others find a dream job that aligns with their goals and values. I often speak with clients who are feeling stagnant or unfulfilled in their current role. If this sounds like you, the first step I suggest in finding a career that you love is to identify your “what, where, why” – that is, what you want to do, where you want to do it, and why it matters to you. This also helps recruiters like me connect you with the right opportunities. As the Beatle’s song goes… if you don’t know where you are going, any road will take you there. Define your career goals.

1. Why Are You Looking?

• What motivates you to make a change?
• Are you seeking a new challenge, a better work-life balance, or more opportunities for growth?
• What do you want to leave behind?
• How would you define your dream job?

2. What is Your Ideal Role?

• Are you open to full-time or contract positions?
• What are your passions?
• What are your top technical and soft skills?
• What skills and experience do you want to develop?
• Be open to exploring different roles and industries that match you skill set

Refactor Pro Tip: Knowing what you don’t want to do in your next role is also important.

3. What is Your Ideal Culture Fit?

• Ideal work environment?
• Startup, Fortune 500, Corporate, etc.?
• Company culture?
• Company size?
• Hierarchy and level of autonomy?
• Work ethic of a team you would like to be a part of?

4. Where are You Open To Working?

• Are you willing to relocate for the right opportunity?
• On-site, remote or hybrid?
• Are you open to travel and how often?

5. What Compensation are you Targeting?

• What hourly rate if open to contract?
• What salary if open to full-time?
• What other parts of a compensation package are important?
• Do your research and know what the market rate is for your skills and experience
• I can help determine your best hourly rate defined by your skill set and market factors

Finding your dream job knowing your “what, where, why” will bring you to your “parachute” – the job that will help you land safely and happily in your new career. Remember that finding a job that brings together your passions and skill set takes time, effort and patience. As Refactor Talent recruiters, we are here to help you navigate the job market and find your next career opportunity. By being clear about your “what, where, why” and other preferences, we can work together to find a job you’ll love.