The end of Daylight Savings Time in America means night falls quicker and the sun rises earlier, which gives you an extra hour each day – but not for long. Before you fall into the routine of your past schedule, make use of that extra hour with these tips to help boost your career or job search.
Even though you may have a regular schedule now that the time change has passed, there are still some extra steps you can take to make a difference in your job search or career.
1. Catch up on sleep
Sure, this sounds counter-productive, but using that extra hour to catch up on ZZZs will make you more successful. Why?
According to The Sleep Foundation, many Americans show up to work drowsy and say they turn in sub-par work performances on a regular basis. A Sleep in America® poll found that 29% of people admitted to sleeping or feeling sleepy at work in the previous month, and 12% were late to work in the last month because of sleepiness.
Get your sleep, and you’ll get better results.
2. Tackle a to-do list
If your to-do list is covered in dust, it’s time to get to work. Put in extra effort to complete little chores like freshening up your resume or sending out requests for references without having to make time in your regular schedule.
3. Begin reading a helpful book
Career-enhancement books or articles on job seeking contain useful and valuable information. Sadly, many job-seekers are too busy looking for work to sit and read. Take an extra hour to find articles or books that are inspiring, creative, educational, helpful, and engaging.
4. Start an exercise program
Counteract the grogginess that comes the end of Daylight Savings Time with a brisk walk in the fall air or by hopping on that bike that’s been sitting in the garage. Regular exercise helps with your career and motivation as well.
According to new research, workers who participated in some form of physical activity experienced significantly lower instances of depression and burnout at work.
5. Pamper yourself
Take the extra hour and use it to treat yourself to light meditation, yoga, a pedicure, a massage, or whatever helps you relax. Stress from work or job hunting can take its toll, so finding time to indulge in your hobbies or relaxation may be just what you need.
6. Organize your workspace
Whether you work at an office or from home, time to arrange and organize your desk or workspace is time well spent. Messy homes and work areas not only give a bad impression to co-workers and clients, they also add to daily stress by leaving you feeling anxious and overwhelmed.
7. Sign up to volunteer
Volunteering is a great way to add spark to your resume in between jobs and add to your skills. Volunteering also shows recruiters that you are a “do-er,” not someone who waits around for opportunities. Contact your local charity to find opportunities to help others while also helping your career.
How do you plan to use your extra hour? Do you have some ideas that we’ve missed? Share your advice in the comments section below.
Movin’ On Up is brought to you by Express Employment Professionals.
