Top Five New Year’s Resolutions for Job Seekers

Nancy Anderson
Posted by in Career Advice




As we begin a new year, it is customary for many people to make positive changes in their personal lives. Why not then implement positive resolutions for job seekers as well? Read on to discover some of the most effective resolutions you can make when searching for a new job in 2011:


Resolution #1 - Know Exactly What you Want: While you can look for a job without a specific focus, you will be that much more effective if you know exactly what you want from your career. Thus, you should undergo some self-evaluation to discover what your true interests, skills, and values in fact are. Then, you should conduct the relevant research to determine which organizations can best fulfill your career wish list. Of course from there, you can focus on marketing yourself to these organizations.


Resolution #2 – Create an Online Presence for Yourself. As you may already know, an online presence combined with social networking is an excellent way to boost your job search. As a potential employer will most likely “google” your name before he or she hires you – and you never know when/where you will make an important career contact, you should ensure that your online presence is a professional and informative one. For instance, you can create a LinkedIn profile, start a blog, and participate in career related discussions on social networking sites that can include Twitter and LinkedIn.


Resolution #3 - Expand Your Professional Network. Along similar lines, it is always important that you continue to make new contacts. After all, the saying “it is not what you know, but who you know” rings true when it comes to obtaining job leads and recommendations. As such, it may also be a good idea to get in touch with colleagues that you have not spoken to in some time. Moreover, besides online networking, you can network the “old fashioned” way in person as well. Some suggestions for “in person” networking opportunities include volunteer positions, business networking meetings, career networking events, trade shows and conferences.
 

Resolution #4 - Remember to Always Follow-up With Employers. Although some job seekers may be hesitant to follow up with a potential employer, in most cases, following up can increase your chances of getting hired. After all, employers appreciate people that are both tenacious and enthusiastic about working for their particular company. Moreover, as a follow up can be conducted via email, this process should be a painless one for you.
 
Resolution #5 - Be Realistic and Remain Positive. While searching for a job can be trying at times, it is always important to remain positive about the situation. After all, you never know when a hiring manager may decide to phone you for an interview and/or hire you. As such, you should continue your job search on a regular basis and remember to treat yourself along the way.

 


With these resolutions in place, finding the job of your dreams this year should be that much easier.
 
 
By: Larisa Redins
Comment

Become a member to take advantage of more features, like commenting and voting.

Jobs to Watch