The ball has dropped, we rung in the New Year… and now what? Your inbox has likely been full of top New Year’s Resolutions that involve weight loss, spending habits, goal setting planners, etc.
Once you’re done with your year-end reflection for 2017, it’s time to look forward to the year that has begun. What will you write for the next chapter of your life? It’s entirely up to you. Take the first step to making sure that it’s a great chapter by making some changes for YOU, and only YOU.
This year only 8 percent of people will actually keep their New Year’s resolutions, according to one commonly cited statistic. There are many reasons people can’t stick to their resolutions, from setting too many of them to getting derailed by small failures.
If you made a big, career-related New Year’s resolution this year, we’re betting it’s one of three things: finding a new job, getting a big promotion at your current company, or finally venturing out on your own.
What are you waiting for? Here are our two best tips for getting started and to not make your resolution harder than it has to be.
Get your resume back in shape.
First things first, it’s time to dust off that hardcopy resume and freshen it up. Sure, the basic facts will always remain the same. Your last employer will always be your last employer and that alma mater is never changing, but there are some key things that should.
You should determine what skills and experiences from past jobs to highlight based on the job description of the position you’re applying for. Maybe they’re looking for a kitchen manager with leadership experience? Be sure to highlight that specifically on the resume you submit for that opening.
Include your latest volunteer works, career advances and reference contacts.
For your resume be sure and slim it down to be only one or two pages – gone are the days of multiple pages jammed packed with every detail of your past. Offer a summary to employers and bring more detailed examples and information to your first interview.
Network like it’s your day job.
If you do anything to get your job search started this month, do this. While looking for any new career opportunities, the more people you can connect with the better. Networking can be hard for many, but the benefits far outweigh the uncomfortable moments of having to meet someone new.
Step away from the computer and get out there! You won’t regret it.
