Searching for a new job is a marathon, not a sprint, and like a marathoner training for a big race, you want to make sure you’re prepared for the long haul. Here are three fundamentals to focus on to give your job search the winning edge in 2014.
1. Spruce Up Your Personal Brand
Having a “personal brand” may sound vaguely like something to do with dating sites, but it’s actually an important part of the job search. You’re marketing yourself to potential employers every day, and you need to make sure you have an appealing message. US News & World Report recommends thinking of your answer to the question “Tell me about your (professional) self” and cutting it down to two or three sentences. Who are you? What’s the most important thing a potential employer needs to know that will convince them to hire you?
Once you’ve defined your personal brand, you need to make sure it comes through consistently everywhere: online and off. From your resume to LinkedIn, including any social networking accounts with your real name on them, everything needs to be on message. If you portray yourself as an excellent customer service professional in your resume but as a bassist in a killer cover band everywhere else, employers may doubt the sincerity of your commitment to the former.
2. Network, Network, Network
If you’re seeking a job, you’re probably already tired of the advice to network to get one – you were probably tired of it a week or two in. But that doesn’t mean it’s bad counsel. On the contrary, networking is vital. Make some concrete goals for maintaining and making professional connections this year. You can do something as small as sending a holiday greeting card to your references, or a quick note asking how they are and updating them on your situation. While it’s a small gesture, it keeps connections alive, which you need to do.
In terms of meeting new people who can help you along, keep an eye out for groups on social media, particular websites and in-person meetings of professionals in your field. Even if all you do is have a coffee and meet two people who work in jobs you’d like to have, you’re networking, and that’s beneficial to you.
3. Stay Grounded
Though it can be difficult to keep your spirits and your expectations up during a job search, it’s important that you do so. For example, don’t go to an interview thinking you can’t possibly land the job. Considering interviews practice runs instead of real chances to get a job only hurts your morale. You need to believe you have a chance to land the job every time you secure that interview, according to Mashable. Similarly, don’t apply to a job you think you’d hate just because you need to send five copies of your resume out today. Instead, aim to do something you will enjoy and can do well. When you’re called for an interview, remember that this is the real thing – it’s not a dress rehearsal, it’s an opportunity.
