BY HEJIRA CONVERY, KINDICARE

OCTOBER 27, 2023

If you’re in the market for a new job, then it really does pay to find a role you’re excited about.  

Work takes up a huge amount of time and energy, and although some people are happy to while away their weeks in a ‘blah’ role and count down the days till retirement, most of us are looking for a job that brings satisfaction and enjoyment, as well as that regular pay packet. 

In the early learning sector, this is especially so.  

We know that you want to make a positive difference in families’ lives, and spend a lot of your time thinking about others, but it’s important to also know what you want for yourself when you’re looking to land your dream job.  

This means thinking about your own needs and wants when searching for jobs, then putting your best foot forward when applying and interviewing for that role you’d really like.  

To learn how to actually do this, we’ve spoken with Kim Keating, Co-founder and CEO of Found Worx. 

Found Worx has partnered exclusively with KindiCare Jobs to bridge the gap between needing a job and finding that role you’re dreaming of; and with almost 30 years’ experience in recruitment, Kim’s tips are definitely worth taking on board!  

For starters, Kim suggests that you think carefully about what your dream role looks like.  

She says, “A dream role means different things for different people, and what you should really do first, is think in terms of your needs and wants (or your wish list).” 

Needs include those must-haves associated with a role, like a sufficient salary and a comfortable commute; but because a dream role is a personal thing, needs also include other matters that are essential for you.  

For instance, you might decide that you need greatly subsidised childcare for your toddler, a sizeable investment in professional development, or a certain amount of time for lesson-planning each week.  

Your wants matter too, and these are the things you’d like – or better still, love – in your dream role.  

For example, you might want six weeks of annual leave per year, the opportunity to support your favourite charity through fundraisers, delicious meals served on-site each day, or something else that would make a role really special for you! 

In all of this, Kim recommends that you, “Think about the kind of workplace culture you’re looking for. The direction your dream role may take you. And what balance you’re seeking between applying your current skillset and extending yourself with new opportunities and responsibilities.” 

And, of course, don’t forget to factor in your feelings, because a dream job is one you’ll feel excited to take on, and passionate to do.  

With your priorities clearly in mind, it’s then time to search for, and compare, different roles.  

We’re pleased to report that KindiCare has partnered with Found Worx to make this important process even easier for you.   

When you search for work using KindiCare Jobs on the KindiCare App, you get a comprehensive list of job features (as well as a salary or hourly rate) in each listing, and can clearly see what different employers are offering for the same role or location.  

Comparing different listings helps you decide which role/s you are qualified for, and it also gives you an idea of what you could ask for when negotiating with a prospective employer.  

The KindiCare/Found Worx partnership then adds a whole lot more value to your employment offering, at no cost to you as a candidate.  

This is because when you register for work with KindiCare Jobs on the KindiCare App, you will now have the opportunity to be supported by a member of the Found Worx team.  

They will help you land your dream role by giving you the opportunity to demonstrate all the amazing things you have to offer, and then help you present these things to prospective employers. 

Once you do find a dream role to go for, it’s important to remain diligent.  

This means taking time and care with your application; making sure you address the job requirements as best you can; triple-checking for typos; and conveying your genuine interest in the role in a professional way.  

Then, when you’re called in for an interview, it’s really important to be prepared, and this applies whether you’re being interviewed in person or via Zoom.  

Kim says, “I recommend that you put time into researching the organisation and role. Know who you are going to talk to. Get there five minutes early. Dress in a professional way that suits the role. And always be honest.”  

On this last point, she explains that, “It’s important to be as comfortable as you can be and show yourself. Be honest about your capabilities, and provide specific examples of how you have handled a real-life situation and achieved a good outcome.” 

A healthy level of confidence will also help you land your dream role.  

Interviews are nerve-wracking for the best of us, but it helps to take a few deep breaths and remember that you are in a good position.  

Currently, there’s high demand for people with the experience, qualifications or genuine desire to enter the early learning sector.  

So, although employers still have the final say, and there might be several people going for your dream job, it’s very important to understand your own worth and reach for your ideal role with both hands!  

Kim says, “If you are a great candidate and you know that you can bring a lot to the role, then communicate this to your interviewer in pleasant, clear terms, and remember that being in a candidate-short market may put you in a great position to negotiate.” 

After comparing those job listings, you’ll be aware of all the extra things that employers can offer, and Kim says, “It is possible to create your own dream job through a process of negotiation.”  

Of course, you may need to be flexible as well.  

Kim says “There is a fine line between knowing your own worth, and understanding that you need and want this dream job. Your prospective employer has needs and wants as well, so try to see things from their perspective too.”  

Also, remember that practise makes permanent! 

If you don’t get the job on your wish-list, despite your best efforts, try not to be too disheartened.  

Another dream opening will come along, even if it’s slightly different to the one you just went for, and if you’re a quality candidate, there’s a good chance your dream organisation will keep you in mind if something else comes up.  

And, in any event, the whole application and interview process is excellent practise.  

Good luck, and may all your recruitment dreams come true!