Unfortunately, you can’t just wish for a job — you have to work for it. And if the 2013 job seeker version of you has been “searching” without really working at the search, you’ve probably seen very little success. Thankfully, a new year is upon us. With that, you can stop wishing for a new job, and simply get that new job with these new year’s resolutions for job seekers.
1. Clean up your resume. Make it one of your job search resolutions to craft a new resume — both online and on paper. Assess your resume, and determine which items should stay and go. For instance, if you graduated from college ten years ago, your GPA and extracurricular activities aren’t super relevant anymore.
Make sure your contact info is up-to-date. And with that, make sure your resume style is up-to-date as well. Gone are the days of a “resume objective.” Instead, include a one to two sentence summary of who you are as a working professional.
2. Commit to networking. If you get pale and clammy at the thought of networking, don’t worry — it happens to a lot of people. But they get over it, and one of your job search resolutions should be to get over it too.
Commit to attending one networking event each month, which can include fun events like happy hours or in-person and online career fairs. However, don’t neglect social media either. That’s right — outlets like Facebook, and especially Twitter, can play a huge role in how and with whom you are networking.
3. Invest in the interview. This particular job seekers resolution is two-fold. First, invest in a great interview ensemble. If you’re searching for a more traditional job, go with a nice suit and tie. However, if you’re interviewing at start-ups or creative agencies, lose the stiff look and go with something fun, yet professional.
Secondly, practice, practice, practice. Finding a job is like a job in and of itself. You must prepare, and be ready “to work” at a moment’s notice. Develop answers to those common interview questions like “Tell us about yourself” and “Where do you see yourself in five years?” Research companies with whom you’re interviewing or at the very least interested in working for, and come up with a list of questions that you have for them. You never know when the chance to interview will occur.
4. Get your head in the game. Every job seeker goes through dry periods, and when that happens to you, you need to be mentally prepared. Keep in mind that the perfect job is out there for you and that it’s just a matter of timing.
What you can do in the meantime is get your name, face and experience out there. Show potential employers just how hard-working and motivated you can be by fully committing to your job search and everything that goes along with it.
Good luck in 2014!
What other new year’s resolutions should job seekers keep in mind for 2014? Share now in our comments!
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