4 Considerations For Job Hunting In The New Year

The new year is approaching quickly, and this means new possibilities to improve our lives over the coming 12 months. A new year seems to always provide a fresh canvas on which to paint a picture of what we truly want. Of course, there are countless areas you can focus on but generally culminate in a list of new years resolutions. Eat healthier. Go to the gym. Quit bad habits. The list goes on and on. But one area you might want to focus on is your career. At the end of the day, your work would serve you more is it’s enjoyable, fulfilling, and meets your financial needs. If you’re in a role that isn’t checking these boxes, finding a new job could implement major, positive change in your life. Here are some considerations for job hunting in the new year.

Understand What You Like and Dislike About Your Current Job

Understanding what you like and dislike about your current job helps you to form a solid opinion about what you want from a your new job. If you’re considering a new role, chances are, something in your current role isn’t meeting your needs. Perhaps you aren’t earning enough and want more money and benefits for your family. Maybe you want progression and there isn’t space to move up in your current company. You may be travelling too far and want something with a shorter commute. You might even want to entirely start over in a new field. Whatever your reason, make sure you are clear about what you want in your new role. Outline a salary, working hours, responsibilities and more. This will help to whittle down the job search.

Know If You Need Training

Of course, some roles require specific training. So, you need to decide if you’re willing or able to continue your education and put in the work. For example, if you’re looking into the medical field or doctors jobs, you’re going to need special training, degrees, or certifications. Do research about the career you want to ensure you don’t miss anything. Because there are so many jobs in this industry with varying requirements, it is necessary to learn about each one you’re considering. 

This step is not just for careers in fields that require more training. Do research for any field you’re thinking about, so you understand fully what is expected in advance. This helps you to know how to prepare for interviews and starting a new job.

The Search

If you’re going to be job hunting in the new year, know that there are many different ways to find work these days. You can browse online job sites like Career Builder and Indeed for appropriate positions, or look out for signs or advertisements calling for staff. Additionally, you can give your details to a recruitment agency that contacts you when they find something compatible. Searching for a new job takes time, patience, and even the willingness to travel, in some cases. Decide how much time and energy you are willing to put into your search, so you don’t burn out in the process. 

Update Your Resume

Make sure that your resume is up to date and free from typos and formatting errors. This document needs to show what you can do in a creative way that stands out in the sea of applicants. It’s an opportunity to show who you are and what is important to you. I recommend that you customize your resume for each job you’re applying for, as it helps recruiters pick up key words and phrases in their searches.