Yes, we all know it is Christmas and holiday time but should that stop you from being organised and getting a head start for 2021? No way.
Resolution – find a (better) job!
Here are a few tips to get your New Year’s resolution started early.
Action steps – get prepared.
1. Understand what you are looking for – review your favourite job boards and identify the jobs you are interested in. Even if they aren’t an exact match – don’t worry – read the job detail closely to understand what the employer wants and what you have to do (read responsibilities of the role). Use these snippets of valuable information – include them in your resume or your cover letter.
Utilise this analysis to identify what the gaps are in your own experience or skills. Is there a recurring them – for instance – a certain programming language (think python) or project management. If this is a gap – start planning how to minimise that gap.
2. Use the holiday time to give your resume a refresh – are you working from an old resume that no longer reflects your current job or newly acquired skills, is the format looking tired, old-fashioned and just plain messy? If so, it is time to brush it up and get it glowing.
3. And ….. what about your referees – firstly are they current? Do they really know what your current skill set is / what your job aspirations are / what projects or activity you are currently working on? If not, maybe it is time to bring them up to speed or perhaps even replace them with someone who is more contemporary and knows your current value.
4. Next, your LinkedIn profile – is it up to date, have you been making any relevant posts? Have you been networking? Give your profile the once over and bring it into 2021.
5. Finally, get some discipline and stick to a job search routine. Committing to a routine gives you a sense of accomplishment, even if you are getting a few knock backs along the way. Make sure you devote some time to review job sites and connect with people in your professional network. Often doing these things in the morning, when you are fresh, is best and has the added benefit of you being able to ‘tick’ them off your ‘to do’ list. Maybe even limit the time you spend searching so that your mental health stays intact! Look after both your physical and your mental wellbeing.
Is updating your resume too hard? No time? Let me help you! Please contact me now. Email: kate@professionalresumesandjobapplications.com