The Top 5 Job Search Resolutions for the New Year

Think of the new year as your chance to start fresh. A time to switch up your goals, organize your life a little better, and commit to doing things more efficiently. Apart from going to the gym more or cleaning up your dirty desk, it’s also the time to commit to some job search resolutions in 2014.

Understandably, 2013 may have been tough in terms of the job search. Studies show job seekers remain pessimistic about the job search, and it’s clear to see why: With unresponsive employers, competition through the roof, and a hidden job market, no wonder things seem bleak.

Despite the above, I challenge you to not let the job search get you down. I challenge you to make 2014 your year to score the job of your dreams. In addition to being more organized or running a mile every morning, check out these job search resolutions for the new year:

1. I will manage my job search more efficiently

When you’re in the job search, career management is key. It’s how you know where you’ve applied, followed up, and next steps you still need to accomplish. While you can go old-school with spreadsheets, online tools can do the work for you, such as storing job postings, finding contact information, and saving correspondence.

Additional ways to manage your job search is to narrow it down by company or have regular meetings with a mentor. These methods will allow you to target your search more effectively, as well as ensure you’re on the right track.

2. I will go to more professional development events

Since networking is linked as one of the top ways to land a job, going to more professional development events in 2014 is key. Apart from learning more about your industry, they’re a great way to meet thought leaders and insiders who can help your job search.

Professional development events come in an array of shapes and sizes. Industry organizations, yearly conferences, and even online hangouts are just some of the ways to hone your skills, as well as meet the right people who can link you to great opportunities.

3. I will clean up my social networking presence

Reports indicate nine out of 10 companies use social media in their recruitment strategy. So, if you don’t have an ample social networking presence, you may fail to get noticed by recruiters and hiring managers.

It’s not enough to just have a presence — you have to have the right sort of presence. For instance, tweeting industry news, engaging in conversations on Facebook, and updating your LinkedIn profile often are methods to stay relevant and competitive.

4. I will foster a positive professional reputation

You’ve probably heard this quote by Warren Buffett: “It takes 20 years to build a reputation and five minutes to ruin it. If you think about that, you’ll do things differently.” Reputation is everything: A good one will provide you with awesome opportunities, and a bad one may send hiring managers running to the door.

What are some ways to foster a positive professional reputation? Apart from the ones I’ve already suggested, such as attending industry events and creating a great social networking presence, prove why you’re great.

For example, testimonials from others solidify your skills. In addition, examples of your success in the form of portfolio items also raise your credibility. Whatever you can do to stand out from your competition will elevate your reputation and prove why you’re a candidate to watch.

5. I will create and maintain my own website

Studies show 56 percent of hiring managers find personal websites to be the most impressive hiring or self-marketing tool a candidate can have, yet only seven percent of candidates have one. Having a hub containing all of your information will make it easier for employers and influencers to find all of your content.

In addition, you can also maintain a blog that illustrates your expertise on relevant industry subjects. For instance, writing about a case study or reporting news from your target employer will show you’re actually paying attention. Plus, if leaders see your blog, you’ll be one step closer to landing a job, opening the door to communication between yourself and a potential employer.

In 2014, create resolutions that will actually bring value and satisfaction to your career. Use the above list to take your job search from good to great!

What do you think? What are some other job search resolutions for the new year?

Image courtesy of Photos Public Domain