If you want to land a new job in 2020, now is the perfect time to commit to actions that will move you forward on your career path. While you can look for a new job or take the next step in your career at any time, there’s something about a new year that can inspire us to make positive changes. As 2019 draws to a close, try focusing your New Year’s resolutions on steps you can take to bring you closer to a new job in 2020.
Here are some suggested resolutions to consider to help boost your job search:
I will take the time to think about the kind of job I really want.
As you approach your job search, try to picture a job that would help you reach specific goals that you set for yourself, such as personal satisfaction, an opportunity to learn new skills or a step toward your ultimate career objective. As employment writer Greg Kratz points out (10 Great New Year’s Resolutions for Job Seekers), without a clear idea of what your next job looks like, you’ll have trouble finding the right fit.
I will create a plan and set a timeline.
List the steps you need to take to move your job search forward, such as updating your resume, building your online presence and expanding your network. Create a timeline by giving yourself a target date for landing a new job (the average being about 5 months); then work back from there by setting up a schedule of smaller goals to achieve between now and your target date. Planning and goal setting will help you to stay on track as you continue your search.
I will focus on companies I am interested in.
Create a target list and research companies that you’d like to work for as one of your New Year’s resolutions, says Career blogger Natalie Winzer (10 New Year’s Resolutions for Job Seekers in 2019). Check out company career pages and subscribe to job alerts if available. Learning about companies you’d like to work for can help focus your job search as you head into 2020.
I will build and continue to expand my network.
60% of employers’ best candidates are found through referrals, according to job search writer Nicole Cavazos (5 Essential New Year’s Resolutions for Job Seekers). If you’re not putting yourself out there, making new connections and keeping up with current contacts, you’re significantly diminishing your chances of finding a great job. If networking is challenging for you, try setting incremental goals, such a meeting one new person every week or scheduling at least one informational interview each month.
I will keep my resume updated.
It’s important to keep your resume updated and ready for job applications. Make sure you’ve included any new skills or relevant experiences. Keep both hard copies and digital formats ready to submit at a moment’s notice.
I will update and clean up my online profiles.
In today’s job market virtually all companies and recruiters review candidates’ social profiles before making hiring decisions, so it’s important to keep your online profiles, especially LinkedIn, up to date and accurate. You should also check other social media accounts, such as Facebook and Instagram, to make sure you have removed embarrassing or incriminating content that would discourage a potential employer from considering you for employment.
I will learn at least one new skill in my field.
While you’re working on specific job search goals, it also makes sense to enhance your work-related skills. Being a lifelong learner is a highly attractive trait in any industry, especially considering the fast pace of today’s work world. Consider taking courses online or at your local community college. Pursuing professional development shows initiative and a commitment to learning, as well as an understanding of what it takes to excel in your field.
I will focus on my quality of life and take care of myself.
While you are focusing on your job search New Year’s resolutions, it’s also important to take care of yourself by managing your health and quality of life. Job search expert Jeff Lipschultz (New Year’s Resolutions for Job Seekers) suggests taking regular breaks from your computer and engaging in any exercise of your choice to relieve stress and maintain your physical and mental health. Set time aside to refuel by doing things you love, such as reading, gardening or spending quality time with your family. If you’re currently unemployed, consider volunteer work, which will allow you to meet new people and focus your energy on something other than your job search process.
I will remain positive.
It can be challenging not to become discouraged, especially if your job search is taking longer than you expected, but falling into negativity can sap your energy and could make you a less appealing job candidate. Call on your support system of friends and family to keep you focused and grounded. Reward yourself regularly for small victories. Resolve to take a regular inventory of the people and things in your life that you’re most thankful for, and use gratitude to help you maintain a positive attitude during your job search.
It can often be easier to make New Year’s resolutions than to keep them, but the potential benefit of resolutions is that they can set the tone and create a mindset for how you approach the year ahead. Whether you use the above suggestions or create your own list of New Year’s resolutions, the result could be a more positive job search experience and hopefully better results in 2020.