2017 is (very) quickly sneaking up on us… (I know; this year has FLOWN by).
Have you decided on your resolutions yet?
If not, don’t worry, this week’s blog should give you some job-hunt related inspiration.
Could you…
1. Be More Creative?
If you’re looking for a new job this January then one thing’s for sure; you’re going to have to stand out from the crowd (January is the busiest time for recruitment).
That might mean getting a little bit more creative. What about…
- Posting on social media?
- Or getting a friend to post for you?
- Using paid advertising?
- Ever created a video CV?
- Or a personal website?
- What about a sales letter?
- Or an infographic?
There are a huge number of ways to get more creative with your job search (rather than just bashing out CVs through the job boards).
If you need some inspiration – click here – to check out our blog post on the subject.
2. Be More Productive?
We all procrastinate sometimes… but there are limits!
I know, it’s difficult, after a hard day at work to even think about applying for other jobs, but it’s really important to keep that momentum going.
Here are some tips on how to keep your job search productive…
- Set aside an hour each evening, just to look for jobs.
- Remove all interruptions (especially mid-application).
- Don’t waste time applying for any old jobs.
- Make a list of the jobs you do apply for.
- And make sure you save the job adverts/ descriptions (you’ll need them later).
- Take breaks when needed (don’t burn yourself out).
There are plenty of ways to achieve your goal and to use your time more efficiently – click here to see just some of them.
3. Learn something new?
Is your CV full of cliché ‘skills’ like “communication,” “teamwork” and “organisation?”
Problem is, these are so overused (and falsely proclaimed) that they’ve become pretty much meaningless! So have you ever thought about learning a new, more appealing skill, to boost your profile?
The following skills are currently very highly regarded…
- Data Analysis.
- Excel.
- Technical and computer skills.
- Commercial awareness.
- Creative skills.
And most of them can be learned, improved and practised upon using online resources and training.
Also, this point isn’t just relevant to work-related skills; employers are generally impressed by people who are willing to learn new things; for example foreign languages, cooking or musical instruments.
If you’re a particularly busy person, you could even do something ultra-productive like learn on the way to work (via audio CD if you’re driving).
Click here to find out more.
4. Volunteer?
Altruism feels great. It’s a fact. But altruism also looks bloomin’ great on your CV!
So, why not do something worthwhile for your fellow human (or animal) this year?
You’ll gain some great new skills and knowledge, boost your profile and you’ll also feel all warm and fuzzy inside, for achieving something great; win-win-win.
Click here to find out some more great reasons to volunteer next year!
5. Read more?
It can be pretty easy to just get home from work and plonk yourself down in front of the telly – especially with easy access to things like Netflix!
So perhaps you should use that time more proactively?
You could set aside an hour or so to read a book; or even better, an industry-related book which will help to boost your knowledge, skills and ultimately career profile.
Your boss and/or potential employers are bound to be impressed! And you’ll become more competent and better at what you do!
Check out Business Insider’s list of eight books, every job seeker should read.
Bonus: Be Happier?
Most people will agree that 2016 has been a pretty strange (and at times, horrible) year.
Recent events really should remind us all about how short life is and how important it is for us to live for ourselves and to be happy.
- Look forward, not back.
- Learn to smile and think happy thoughts.
- Surround yourself with people who make you happy.
- Be realistic with your expectations.
- Find a passion.
Click here to find out more about being happier and more positive about life and your job.
What are your New Year’s resolutions?
I’ve decided that I will be healthier (same old, same old) and more productive.
Recruiter Pro Tip Scared of failing (again)? You’re not to only one! Scarily 63% of people admit to breaking a New Year’s resolution in the past (and that’s only the ones who admitted it) and 66% of those people said it was within a month! Perhaps you could do with some back up? Check out this article from NHS Choices, with some easy but important tips for successfully reaching your goals.
If you’d like some more tips on how to supercharge your career in 2017, then subscribe to this blog to receive a short weekly update with the latest news and advice from us!
