A brand new year is almost here. And, while you might think it’s the perfect time for party poppers, champagne, and resolutions, it’s also a great opportunity for something that’s a little less common: Finding a new job.
That’s right—the new year brings a fresh start, new opportunities, and the promise of better things to come. So, really, what better time to land yourself a brand new gig?
Need a little more convincing? Check out these three solid reasons that 2017 is the perfect time to look for a job—as well as some tips to make it happen—and prepare to score a new position that’ll start your new year off on the right foot.
Just promise us one thing: That you won’t job search while you’re still buzzed on that champagne.
1. It’s Going to Be the Best Job Market in Years
Believe it or not, plenty of research indicates that 2017 will be one of the best job markets we’ve had in years.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics as reported by TIME, openings hit an all time high in 2016. And that number is projected to just keep rising in this next year—particularly for mid to senior level workers.
So, believe us when we say that there has literally never been a better time to kickstart your job search—because, well, we mean it.
2. There Are New Opportunities Available
Think back to just a few short years ago, and you’ll quickly realize that positions like “Social Media Manager” and “App Developer” didn’t exist at all. And, now? They make up a dominant portion of the workforce.
Consider this your proof that—much like our world—the job landscape is always changing and evolving. There are constantly new opportunities cropping up that might interest you.
Even if you haven’t been considering leaving your current gig, there’s really no harm in seeing what’s out there. You might be surprised by an opportunity you didn’t even know existed.
3. There’s No Time Like the Present
Have you been toying with the idea of leaving your existing job for a while, yet haven’t quite been able to pull the trigger? Well, now’s your time to take the leap.
With a rosy-looking job market and new positions always cropping up, you’re armed with the perfect circumstances to take a deep breath, polish up your resume, and see what else is out there. The old saying really holds some water—there’s no time like the present.
Tips to Job Search in the New Year
So, now that you know that it’s a good time to dust the cobwebs off that resume of yours and submit your applications, what else should you know to set yourself up for job hunting success in the new year?
Keep these three key tips in mind, and you’re that much more likely to score a gig of your dreams in 2017.
1. Brush Up
The year has changed, so you might need to as well. Before updating your resume and sending in any cover letters, take a few minutes to get up to speed on anything new in your field. Are there new tools or pieces of software you should get familiar with? Have there been any major changes or announcements in your industry?
If so, make sure you leave the necessary time to learn whatever you need to, so that you can be an even more impressive (and relevant) candidate.
2. Create a Plan
The new year is a time when we all think about how we can improve over the next 365 days. Why not capitalize on your renewed sense of focus and outline a job search plan for yourself?
This can be as simple or complex as you want it to be. In fact, the simple act alone of getting some of your goals and action items jotted down on paper should help you stay zoned in on what’s important and what you’re ultimately looking for in a new job.
3. Get Moving
For many companies, the fiscal year begins in January, which means they have the necessary funding for new positions—making it the perfect time to get moving on your job search.
So, when it comes to searching for a brand new job in the new year, don’t delay and shuffle your feet. Once you have your materials ready and your sights set on the sort of position you want, get moving! Unfortunately, that dream job won’t wait for you.
