Do you believe that landing your dream job is impossible?

Do you think that only people who are extraordinarily talented, exceptionally fortunate or just plain lucky (or all of the above!) can have the career of their dreams?

If you’re already convinced that it’s impossible, then you probably want to ignore this simple, 8-step system for career success.

But if you’re curious about what’s possible, we encourage you to read on! We hope you’ll discover that landing your dream job isn’t just achievable, it’s far simpler than you may think!

It’ll take an open mind, hard work and a good dose of determination… but we’ve interviewed hundreds of successful, professional conservationists across the globe who’ve done it, and we want to help you do it, too!

Follow these 8 steps to career success and make 2021 your best year yet!

#1 Know yourself inside and out

Everyone is different, and will have a different role which suits them. You might love being outside, or hate getting dirty. You might like being in groups, or work better alone. Knowing yourself, what you’re good at and love doing, is the foundation of any successful career hunt.

#2 Get a full picture of the jobs available

The conservation job market is huge, diverse and growing all the time. We’ve listed nearly 30,000 jobs on Conservation Careers in the past six years with over 13,000 different job titles. Getting a clear picture of the main types of jobs available will help you to identify where you will best fit in. Your sweet spot where you’ll find career happiness and impact (and be super competitive in the job hunt).

#3 Understand the requirements

Once you have a clear picture of your dream role, everything starts to fall into place. Questions like “do I need a Masters Degree” or “should I take this volunteer role” can be answered with clarity. Employers state what they’re looking for, so it’s a case of reviewing job descriptions for what you need.

#4 Identify your gaps

Having identified the requirements, you can assess yourself against these and identify the key gaps you need to address to become employable.

#5 Get the right qualifications, experiences and skills for your chosen role

With your gaps now clear, it’s a simple case of finding the best way to fill each one. It’s all about strategy at this point. Spending your time as wisely as possible to get you exactly what you need. It might mean taking a course, gaining experience or doing something off your own back. But having this approach means you won’t waste any time or money in securing your dream job.

#6 Submit applications that get you to interview

Once you’ve filled your key gaps you’re ready to submit applications. Crafting high-quality CVs, Resumes, Cover Letters and Application Forms is so important. No one size fits all.

#7 Prepare for and deliver great interviews

When you get this far, you’re nearly there! Time to prepare fully for the big day, control any nerves you might have, and to shine during your interview.

#8 Learn from each role, and ensure the next one makes you even more happy

The process to finding a happy career doesn’t stop when you secure your job. In each role, we recommend you reflect on what you enjoy, what you’re good at and what you dislike. These lessons will help you to refine your direction for the next job which comes along. Ensuring you get better, happier and more impactful each time.

Simple, eh?

Now it’s your turn! Follow the 8 steps to make 2021 the year you kick-start your dream conservation career!

If you’d like extra support to secure your dream job in conservation, check out our flagship online course the Conservation Career Kick-Starter. It’s a proven step-by-step system to get clear, get ready, and get hired in the conservation sector.

With the Kick-Starter there’s no confusion. No ambiguity. It tells you EXACTLY what to do, walking you through the entire process.

Careers Advice