Want to have a job that you feel incredibly proud of and that makes you genuinely excited to go into work every day?

It might sound like a pipe dream but there are probably ways you can accomplish just that more easily than you realize… If you're currently thinking about moving on in your career, or if you're actively looking for work, then read the suggestion below to see how you can end up in the kind of job you'd only dreamed of before.

Step 1 – Identify the Jobs

The first step is to identify the jobs that you're interested in doing. Think in terms of the subject matter (is it an industry you're passionate about?) but also in terms of the day-to-day work. Is this something you'll actually enjoy doing every day for the next X number of years?

Think about the jobs you wanted to do as a child, think about the jobs you've enjoyed in the past and think about your hobbies and interests. Likewise, think of the organizations you're a fan of.

Another tip, is to think of the kind of jobs that aren't necessarily super 'accomplished'. You don't have to be a billionaire to be happy, perhaps you just want to spend your time outside?

Step 2 – Have a Chat

Next up, try and find someone in your chosen industry who you can talk to and get information from. That could be a friend, or it could mean picking up the phone or visiting the office. Have a chat and ask them how they got into the job and what you would need to do to become a candidate. If you strike up a friendship, they will also be a useful contact for the next step…

Step 3 – Volunteer

Now it's time to start trying to actually get those jobs. One great way to do this is to start out by volunteering at the organization you're interested in working for, or at a similar one. You can do this by taking time out of your work, or by doing work on the weekend one day a week.

This way, you'll gain free exposure to the industry, you'll make contacts (the crucial bit) and you'll demonstrate your skill. In exchange, they get a free pair of hands and they would be mad to turn that down.

Note that you don't have to wait for an opening to do this. Just find the e-mail for the relevant person and then write to them explaining who you are and offering your services. You can also increase your chances of success by sending this e-mail to hundreds of organizations. If it's a writer you want to be, then send your message to as many magazines you'd enjoy writing for as possible.

Best case scenario, you get the placement and after a while they offer you a permanent job. Worst case scenario, you now have experience to add to your CV when you apply for the job in a paid capacity.