With the new year bringing a fresh start, now is the time to reach for your aspirations! The first quarter of the year is known as the best time to land a new role, therefore this is an ideal time to search for a new position. Here are 5 new year's resolutions that could help you bank that dream job.
- Update CV
When was the last time you read your own CV? Set aside time to look over your CV to make sure everything is up to date and consider if there are any new skills or experiences to add. It can also help you see what skills you need to gain and put that information into practice to upskill this year.To really bump up your CV, ask a career coach or someone you trust to help look over the wording and consistency. Most importantly, personalise your CV for each role you apply for and target it to the job description.
- Check your Social Media
It can be easy to forget about social media, but hiring managers check and it could cost you a role if it needs cleaning up.
To stand out, showcase your personal brand on a website or your social media (LinkedIn!) to represent yourself in the best light. It’ll leave a stronger impression than just a CV alone as you can highlight your professional goals and aspirations.
- Network
Growing your network can help you increase your likelihood of finding a job. Consider attending virtual career fairs, a professional organisations online seminar, or reaching out on social media.
Finding a mentor can be an invaluable person in your life. They would be someone more senior than you in your field that would be willing to meet for career-related advice.
You can also seek out companies that would have a good cultural fit with you on LinkedIn, or see “Similar pages” for related companies, and contact them for opportunities. You won’t know the outcome until you try.
- Follow Up With Employers
If you don’t ask, you don’t get. Don’t shy away from following up with employers! Just by reaching out after a week or two to ask how your application is coming along you may learn useful information for your next job search, you are also more likely to leave a confident impression.
- Prioritise mental health.
Spring clean your home office and a do digital declutter to make room for the new near. Having everything organised will help you think more clearly.
Applying for jobs can be stressful, so make sure not to forget to make time for yourself such as going for a walk or meditating to lift your spirits during the time of unknown.
Finally, knowing exactly the type of role you are looking for isn’t always easy, but having a list of non-negotiables can help narrow down your search. Ask yourself what type of work-place culture would make you feel the most at ease. Would you like to work remotely, hybrid, or go into the office every day? Would you prefer to freelance or work as a full-time employee? Once you know the work environment that you would work best in, you can strive to find a position that better supports your future career.
Written by Bavneet Dhanjal, Marketing Assistant.
