Were New Year’s resolutions meant to be broken? The statistics would support this theory, as one-third of all Americans resolve to better themselves every January. While 75 percent of them
uphold their resolutions for at least a week, only 46 percent are still on track six months later.
But when it comes to your career goals, this is one area where you should keep your promise to yourself. As you move forward into 2015, now is a good time to evaluate your professional criteria, your career strategy and your future outlook as a professional.
Refresh Your Resume
Whether or not you plan to seek new employment, this is a step you should take on an annual basis. Review both your resume and your LinkedIn profile and make any necessary updates.
- Use the best resume format for your current situation. If you plan to look for a better job in your current field, a chronological format is probably your best bet. Consider a skill-based resume if you’re considering a new field or have awkward gaps in your employment history. Plan to customize every resume to job descriptions, with a focus on relevant accomplishments.
- Be sure your resume is keyword friendly. Increasingly, recruiters and hiring managers use applicant tracking systems (ATS) to make initial candidate selections. Match keywords to job postings and position them high in your resume content for maximum exposure.
- Target measurable achievements. This is the best way to showcase your career accomplishments to date. For instance, instead of simply saying that you “implemented an electronics records system,” also note that it “reduced operating costs by $3 million in a 12-month period.”
Reenergize Your Networking Efforts
No matter how impressive you look online or on paper, nothing beats getting out there and taking to your fellow professionals, along with connections who may offer leads to a new career opportunity.
- Your network is wider than you may think. It includes friends, friends of friends, classmates, instructors, coworkers, neighbors, and members of your gym, church, clubs and organizations. Show your face and say hello. Initiate and participate in conversations.
- Consider volunteering. It’s an instant mood and confidence booster. In addition, you’ll benefit from meeting more people – and it’s a true resume asset.
- Optimize your use of social media. In addition to LinkedIn and Facebook, utilize platforms like twitter, YouTube, Pinterest and Instagram. Get involved in Meetup for a bridge between making connections on line and interacting face to face.
Be Persistent and Productive
Constantly manage your time, honing in on your job search when you’re at your best, and never give up. Be patient and trust the process.
- Use high-energy time to network and make follow-up calls. During periods of lower energy, research potential employers, prepare for interviews and organize your materials.
- Use downtime to create positive routines. Prepare and enjoy healthy meals. Socialize. Master a new skill, hobby or interest. In the long run, you’ll be more balanced, relaxed and energized.
- Accept temporary employment. You’ll gain valuable experience while seeking a permanent job and be more attractive to prospective employers.
Is a new job on your list of goals for 2015?
Contact the recruiters at PrideStaff Fresno. We’ll help ensure your success, beginning with an in-person interview to help define your goals and find the right fit for you. This is one resolution well worth pursuing!