Career To Do's for the New Year

Career To Do's for the New Year

The start of a new year is a common time when people talk
about making changes, particularly when it comes to their
jobs. Whether you are seriously ready to make a move or
you are still thinking about it, these 5 "Career To Do's"
will help get your year started off right.

1. Update your resume. In today's uncertain economy, you
need to be ready to move at a moment's notice. If your
company were to close today, how long would it take you to
prepare for a job search? When was the last time you
updated your resume? Do you remember every assignment or
special project you've worked on over the past year? Can
you recall all of the classes or special training you've
received? Every year, at least twice a year, invest some
time in updating your resume. Use performance evaluations
and job descriptions to ensure you are accurately
demonstrating your skills and accomplishments in the most
clear, concise, and flattering manner.

2. Network, network and network. Nobody likes a person
who only calls when they want something. Don't put
yourself in a position of not having a job and needing to
reach out to old colleagues and acquaintances that you
haven't talked to in 5 years. Now is the time to nurture
those relationships. Join or renew your membership to a
professional organization, subscribe (and contribute) to an
industry journal or newsletter, send former co-workers a
"hello" note. Should you ever find yourself looking for a
new job, your network is already in place and ready to work
for you.

3. Review old goals and set new ones. Ships don't set a
course at the beginning of a journey then sit back and hope
they reach their destination. Instead they periodically
check their position and make adjustments as needed.
Planning your career success is no different. Last year,
what were your goals? What position were you hoping to be
in? How much money were you expecting to make? Take some
time to compare your current situation with what you were
hoping for last year. What adjustments do you need to make?

4. Get a real performance evaluation. No matter how high
your self-esteem is or how great you think you are, the
reality is that your success is highly dependant upon how
other people perceive you. If your company does not do
periodic performance reviews ask for one. And don't just
seek praise (although that may be useful information when
it comes time for a salary adjustment), but also get 2 or 3
areas for improvement. Ask for specific suggestions and
follow up in a few months to check your progress.
Performance evaluations are not only useful for finding
your weaknesses, but should you find yourself in a job
interview, you can use specific examples from your review
to highlight your strengths.

5. Invest in your personal development. Take a class.
Attend a conference. Learn a new computer program. The
minute you stop trying to improve yourself is the minute
you stop growing. Your personal success will depend upon
you making an investment of time and sometimes money. Even
if your company does not offer any training, its worthwhile
to make the investment in yourself. And if your company
does offer any kind of training, then (and I apologize for
the insult) you'd be a fool not to take advantage of it.