Tag Archives: new year

7 Tips for Setting Your 2015 Job Search Goals

2015_job_search_goals_webAs we begin a new year, it’s time to make our resolutions a reality. As part of 2015’s resolutions, many people are setting their sights on finding a new job.  Whatever your reasons – higher pay, promotions, or better work-life balance – for wanting to make a switch in 2015, here are a few tips to help you set your job search goals.

1. Ask yourself what you want.
Do you know why you’re looking for a new job? Now is the time to identify what you want in a position that you don’t already have. Are you wanting more time off? If so, how much more do you want? If it’s more money, what salary is ideal? Do you want to learn something new? By answering these questions, you’ll have a better idea of how to direct your focus.

2. Identify your skills.
It’s time to list out your skills and qualifications. As you continue to work, you’re acquiring more skills. Take an inventory of what you’re good at and areas where you want to make improvements. After identifying your skills, update your resume and cover letter to reflect your top traits that will help move you in the direction you want to go.

3. Do your research.
You don’t want to apply for every available job out there because doing so may be a waste of your time and energy. Instead, focus your attention on the companies you admire and look at what jobs they have available that seem interesting to you. By reining in your search, it allows you to tailor your resume and cover letter to each organization.

4. Network, network, network.
Networking is key to finding a new job. As the old saying goes, sometimes “it’s not what you know, but who you know.” Your current connections and friends are a wealth of information. They may know a friend who works at a certain company that has a job you’d be perfect for, and it may be a company you would have never thought of before! Utilize your current connections, but also make it a point to meet new people. Look to join professional groups in your industry. They usually hold networking meetings once a month where people catch up or share about job opportunities.

5. Visit a career coach or staffing agency.
Just like networking, it never hurts to meet with a person who can help you find a job. You can give them a copy of your resume and let them know what you’re interested in.  Then, they can give you feedback not only on your resume and cover letter, but also offer advice on interview skills.  In addition, a staffing agency has many businesses as clients and can keep you in mind if one of them has an opening that meets your skills.

6. Stay positive.
Know that any job search may not turn up many leads or a new job right away. Sometimes it can happen quickly and sometimes it can take upwards of six months to find the perfect match. Don’t get discouraged. Every networking opportunity and job interview gets you closer to where you want to be and closer to a yes!

7. Plan for your retirement.
Although your goal may be to just find a new job, don’t forget about your plans for retirement. Let’s be honest – the ultimate goal is to not work forever. During your hunt, remember to keep your finances in check, saving money aside for your retirement. Also, as you interview, be sure to ask about the company’s retirement plans and what benefits they provide, such as 401(k) matching.

How are you planning your job search goals for 2015? Let us know in the comments section below!

Movin’ On Up is brought to you by Express Employment Professionals.

Poll: What is your biggest roadblock to finishing strong in 2014?

MOV_POLL-ICONThe beginning of fall means we’re entering the home stretch of 2014. And with 2015 just around the corner, many jobseekers are feeling the pressure to finish the year on a strong note. So, for our October poll, we want to know what you anticipate being the biggest obstacle in your path to landing a job and getting a strong start in 2015.

Movin’ On Up is brought to you by Express Employment Professionals.

5 Resume Resolutions to Keep in 2014

5_Resume_Resolutions_Jan20142014 is here, and for many people, with a new year comes new resolutions. To achieve the goals you’ve set, make sure you have a clear plan for success. Start with small changes that can make a difference in the long run.
If one of your goals is to get a new job, explore a different career path, or get a promotion, this information is for you. Here are five resume resolutions to keep this year.

1.    Stay Up-To-Date
It’s important to keep your resume updated. Adding your current experience is much easier to do when you’re in a specific position than when you’re looking back and trying to remember. Also, you may forget important information if you don’t update your resume on a regular basis. If you’ve recently completed your annual review, consider moving some of your high points into achievements on your resume.

2.    Keep It customized
Since every company and job you’re applying for may be different, you need to tailor your resume for each specific job. For example, if you’re applying for an administrative job you’ll need to have a resume targeted toward that position.

3.    Have Relevant References
Make sure contact information for the people you have listed as your references is still accurate and up-to-date. When you look for references, be sure to select people who can speak to some aspect of your work abilities, character, leadership, work ethic, or knowledge.

4.    Easy To Read
If your resume is too “wordy” or not focused on the specific job you’re applying for, the person reading it may not think you’re qualified and may toss it out. Great resumes are easy to read and worded to target specific opportunities. Sharing numbers is another way to make your resume easy to read. For example, share how many words per minute you can type. By putting numbers in your resume the interviewer can define your capabilities easier.

5.    Always Proof Your Resume
After you’ve made changes to your resume, you should always check for grammar and spelling mistakes. Typos and other slip-ups are small mistakes that are very costly. After you’ve worked on your resume for a while it’s easy to miss little mess ups, so take a break and come back to it with a fresh set of eyes. You may be able to catch something you missed the first time.

What are some resolutions you’ve made this year to help further your job search? Share with us in the comments section below.

And what are the odds of you keeping those resolutions? Share with us in our poll.

Poll: What are the odds of you keeping your new year’s resolution?

According to Forbes, only 8% of people actually achieve their new year’s resolutions. So, don’t feel so bad about your 2013 resolutions that you didn’t achieve. 2014 is a new year and another chance to make those needed changes in your life. But don’t overextend your resolutions or you’ll end up right back where you are a year from now.
Your attitude can help or hurt you as you make your list of resolutions for 2014. So remember to stay positive. You’re more likely to achieve your resolutions that way!

What are the odds of you keeping your new year’s resolution?

 

Free Time? Propel Your Career Forward Today

Clock Whether you’re looking for a new job or planning to move up in your current position, now is the perfect time to focus on your career. Between use-it-or-lose-it vacation policies, inclement weather, and time off during the holidays, many people find themselves with additional free time during the winter.

Here are five ways to make the most of your time off and keep your professional life going forward.

Take a break: It may seem counterproductive, but give yourself permission to relax. A few days off can change your perspective, especially if you spend the time doing something you enjoy. You’ll come back to work or the job hunt with a refreshed viewpoint.

Update your résumé: Make changes to your résumé that reflect expanded job duties, additional volunteer work, or continued education. Double check that everything is current and take extra time to check for typos. Check out these tips to get your résumé into shape.

Write a new cover letter: Cover letters are a way to summarize your goals and strengths. Writing one can be a succinct way to prioritize your goals, even if you’re not planning to make a career move soon. Having a polished cover letter available also comes in handy if a dream position or promotion should become available. Not sure where to start? Check out these 30 power words that can help your letter get noticed.

Check out social media: If you don’t already have a LinkedIn profile, create one to connect with other professionals in your industry or the industry you’d like to work in. LinkedIn is a great place to find out about local networking events, and showcase your job skills. Also use this time to check your Facebook privacy settings and remove  any questionable content a potential employer might see on your profile.

Sort through your wardrobe: Clean your closet and give those items that no longer fit your professional goals to charity. Dress for Success and Career Gear, national organizations that help disadvantaged women and men reach their goals of self-sufficiency by providing them interview clothes, provides receipts for tax-deductible donations. Take the time to try on your clothes to determine what you like, don’t like, need to have tailored, or sent to the dry cleaner. Replace essential items and organize your closet or dresser for speedier prep time on busy mornings.

These are just a few examples of how you can still be productive, but relaxed, during free time. A few minutes spent on tasks like these can reduce anxiety when you’re faced with a job interview or pivotal moment in your career. You’ll feel more confident and prepared, a terrific start to propelling your career.