When most people think of New Year’s resolutions, they think of plans to spend more time with family, reduce their spending, or hit the gym. But if you’re on the job market, your goals probably point in only one direction: Land a new job.
Make 2016 your year for a great new career by creating and sticking to these three job-search resolutions:
I will take advantage of the job search opportunities others miss.
If you’re currently on the job market, taking a holiday break – or a post-holiday break – can seem tempting. In fact, the winter holidays and the new year are one of the worst times to slack in your job search.
Why? Because most job seekers have already made the decision to “tune out” until mid-January or later. By staying committed, you become the first person to put your foot in the door with any number of promising employers who have not stopped looking for the people they need to meet their 2016 business goals.
As the new year begins, take advantage of local job fairs as well. Participate on LinkedIn and other sites where professionals in your field congregate.
I will focus on my accomplishments, not my duties.
Many job seekers start to cut corners when the job search gets tiring. They may start simply copying and pasting lists of job duties or skills from job postings into their resumes. Worse, they may draft a “one-size-fits-all” resume and send it to as many employers as possible, hoping that someone takes the bait.
Instead, read each job posting with this question in mind: “What have I done in my career that used these skills?” Choose one or two major accomplishments, then draft your application materials and prepare your interview answers around those accomplishments. Not only will you show employers that you have what it takes to succeed, you’ll also give yourself a confidence boost when you need it most.
I will work with people who can help me reach my goals.
Take advantage of the season by contacting a colleague or friend you haven’t seen for a while. Offer to meet up for lunch or coffee. While you’re there, update them on your job search, describe the position you’re looking for, and see if they have any ideas.
And don’t forget to add the help of an experienced recruiter to your list. Staffing firms specialize in connecting job seekers to employers who offer not only a great fit for their skills, but for their personalities as well.
At THE RIGHT STAFF, LLC, our experienced recruiters can help you find a great new job in the coming year. Contact us today to learn more.