When you’re looking for new opportunities, it’s wise to have a clear target in mind. By creating an interview bucket list, you make it easier to focus your efforts. In addition, it helps you identify options that best align with your preferences, both immediately and into the future.
If you wonder what an interview bucket list is, what it can do for you, and how to build one, here’s what you need to know.
What Is an Interview Bucket List?
In the simplest sense, an interview bucket list is a list of companies that are organizations that stand out in your mind as employers. Often, it’s because they bring something to the table that you find particularly valuable. Of course, precisely what that is will vary, as every professional is different.
The Benefits of an Interview Bucket List
An interview bucket list can provide you with a range of benefits. The most obvious one is that it gives you a set of companies to monitor for suitable opportunities, giving you some targets during your next job search.
However, the process of creating an interview bucket list is also enlightening. It helps you identify what you find most important in employers. During the process, you’ll learn more about your preferences and priorities, which is incredibly vital for long-term career planning.
Plus, you’ll gain knowledge that you can carry and use to evaluate other opportunities for different companies. You can determine if employers you didn’t initially have your eye on are worth considering, as you’ll have a better idea of what you’re after.
How to Build an Interview Bucket List
When you want to create an interview bucket list, your first step is to gain a deep understanding of what you bring to the table. This helps you determine the kinds of positions you’d fit best, giving you an initial target.
After that, it’s time for self-reflection. You need to determine what you need from an employer to feel satisfied, as well as whether you’re open to taking certain steps – like moving or furthering your education – to land a position at an employer of choice.
Once you’ve outlined your priorities, it’s time for research. In many cases, you’ll handle the bulk of this step online. You can do general searches, head to company websites and social media pages, check out reviews on Glassdoor, connect with members of your network, and take similar steps.
Whenever you find a contender, it’s time for a deep dive. Along with some extra research, you may want to request an informational interview from current employees. This lets you get the inside scoop.
Once you’re sure a company should be on your list, create job alerts, start networking in that direction, and otherwise take steps to track new opportunities. That way, you’ll know when a position comes open.
Ultimately, by using the tips above, you can create a personalized interview bucket list with ease. If you’d like to find out more about how you can land a position at an employer of choice, the team at The Advance Group can help. Contact us today.
