If the number one thing on your list for 2020 is finding a new job, it’s time to get serious! Resolutions may seem cliche, but the New Year is actually the perfect time to commit to actions that will positively affect your career. Just like any other resolution, saying you’re going to do it is the easy part. Here are the top 5 resolutions you can make to get you one step closer to finding your dream job.
1. Enhance your resume
Hastily submitting your resume to hundreds of jobs may seem like a good idea, but a poorly-tailored resume can fall through the cracks of an applicant tracking system very easily. If it’s been a while since you updated your resume, check to make sure your address, phone number, and email are all updated. Then, take a look at your work history. Update any new positions, promotions, and skills you have learned. Lastly, make sure you aren’t committing any resume mistakes! A fresh, well-formatted resume will increase your chances of being seen by a hiring manager or recruiter.
2. Brush up on your skills
Did you know: employers are focusing less on job-specific knowledge, technical knowledge or extensive experience. Instead, they want good communicators, problem solvers, and team players. These are considered soft skills, or personal attributes you need to thrive in the workplace. In fact, here are the top 5 skills they are looking for:
1. Communication skills (written) 82.0%
2. Problem-solving skills 80.9%
3. Ability to work in a team 78.7%
4. Initiative 74.2%
5. Analytical/quantitative skills 71.9%
3. Network!
The phrase, “It’s not about what you know, it’s about who you know,” is still true in the job searching process! This is the time to look back over your job history and identify those experiences and relationships that will assist you in finding your new job. Reach out to previous employers, friends, or colleagues about your job hunt. You never know who will help you find your next opportunity. Attending job fairs is also a great way to gain exposure. While they can be very intimidating, there are a few things you can do to ease your nerves and make a great impression: How to Stand Out at a Job Fair
4. Check your online presence
Yes, rewriting your resume and cover letter are great ways to improve your chances of getting noticed. However, have you considered that maybe an employer has already gotten a glimpse of you? That’s right! I’m talking about your social media presence, and how it could be disqualifying you for the job before you even apply. The New Year is a great time to check your online presence. Clean it up, change your privacy settings, and update your LinkedIn!
5. Prepare for interviews
A job seekers’ world is a competitive one. Therefore, standing out is everything. So, what else can you do to make yourself stand out? Well, perfecting your interview technique could be what you need. Practice tough interview questions that may arise, make sure your interview wardrobe is up-to-date, and prepare for any interview scenario including phone interviews and video interviews.
It can be easy to set big goals and resolutions amidst the excitement of the New Year, but it will take ongoing support and focused resources to help see them through. Take a look through our blog to find more resources!
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