How to Energize Your Job Search in the New Year

By Michael C. Dennis

Here are 80 ways to energize and focus your job search in the New Year:

·????? Identify desired roles, industries, and company types.

·????? Imagine yourself in your ideal role to boost your motivation.

·????? Focus on your strengths and past successes.

·????? View all job search related rejections as learning opportunities.

·????? Acknowledge progress to maintain momentum.

·????? Prioritize self-care and maintain a healthy work-life balance.

·????? Share your goals and progress with others for support.

·????? Concentrate on your actions and effort.

·????? Quantify your accomplishments with metrics.

·????? Match keywords and skills in your application and resume or cv to the job description.

·????? Highlight your key qualifications and value proposition in your cover letter.

·????? Make your resume more dynamic and impactful by using relevant keywords

·????? Personalize each resume and cover letter to the specific company and role.

·????? Explain what sets you apart from other candidates in the interview and in a thank you note.

·????? Ensure your resume and cover letter are error-free.

·????? Ask trusted friends, mentors, or career counselors to review your resume or cv.

·????? Update your LinkedIn profile with keywords, skills, and accomplishments.

·????? Connect with recruiters, industry professionals, and if applicable alumni.

·????? Participate in discussions and share valuable content online.

·????? Connect with professionals in your field online.

·????? Inform friends, family, and former colleagues about your job search.

·????? Stay up-to-date on company news and job openings.

·????? Access networking opportunities.

·????? Look for ways to establish yourself as an expert in your field.

·????? Project a professional image.

·????? Research companies that align with your career goals.

·????? Refine your searches to find and target only relevant job opportunities.

·????? Sign up to receive notifications about new job postings that match your criteria.

·????? Expand your search geographically to increase your chances of finding relevant openings.

·????? Network with potential employers and learn about new opportunities, and express your interest even if there are no open positions.

·????? Keep detailed records of your applications and networking efforts.

·????? Identify required skills and tailor your application accordingly.

·????? Ensure a good fit before applying.

·????? Practice phone, video, and in-person interviews, and structure your answers with Situation, Task, Action, Result.

·????? Be ready to address frequently asked questions.

·????? At the end of every interview, reiterate your interest and express your appreciation.

·????? Determine if there are skills you need to acquire to be competitive, and if so get them.

·????? Develop new skills to demonstrate your commitment to learning.

·????? Stay up-to-date on industry trends and best practices.

·????? Enhance your technical skills to increase your marketability.

·????? Seek guidance and support from mentors.

·????? Connect with other professionals and learn from their experiences.

·????? Dedicate specific time each day to your job search.

·????? Focus on the most important activities that will move your job search forward.

·????? Organize your applications, networking contacts, and interview schedule.

·????? Break down your job search into smaller, manageable tasks.

·????? Create a dedicated workspace and minimize interruptions.

·????? Avoid burnout by taking short breaks throughout the day.

·????? Track your progress and make adjustments as needed.

·????? Understand each potential employer’s mission, values, and culture before the first interview.

·????? Use the STAR method to structure your responses.

·????? Test your technology before an online screening interview.

·????? Always try to make a positive first impression.

·????? Don’t offer rambling responses; show your respect for the interviewer's time.

·????? Project a positive and engaging demeanor.

·????? Ensure you understand the questions being asked.

·????? Make sure that you connect your qualifications to the job requirements.

·????? Frame your weaknesses as areas for growth.

·????? Be prepared to concisely summarize your skills and experience.

·????? Know what you’re worth, and be prepared to discuss your salary expectations.

·????? Prioritize getting enough sleep during your job search.

·????? Connect with friends and family, and pursue hobbies and personal interests.

·????? Seek support from a career counselor or career coach.

·????? Stay positive and remain persistent throughout the job search process.

·????? Set boundaries between job searching and personal time.

·????? Join online job search support groups.

·????? Attend job search workshops or seminars.

·????? Use a project management tool to organize your search.

·????? Create a daily or weekly to-do list for your job search.

·????? Break down large tasks into smaller, more manageable steps.

·????? Use a timer to stay focused on specific tasks.

·????? Take advantage of free online resources and tools for your job search.

·????? Invest in professional development resources if doing so is possible.

·????? Practice your storytelling skills to create compelling narratives.

·????? Prepare specific examples to illustrate your skills and experience.

·????? Research the interviewer on LinkedIn before the interview.

·????? Send a personalized thank-you note after each job interview.

·????? Follow up with the interviewer after a reasonable timeframe to demonstrate interest and enthusiasm.

·????? Always ask for feedback after being rejected for a job.

·????? Learn from your mistakes and adjust your strategy accordingly.

·????? Consider volunteer work to gain experience and build your network.

·????? Research company benefits and perks ahead of time.

·????? Celebrate successes, no matter how small.