Whether or not you make “resolutions,” here are a few items to add to your January career to-do list.
1. Update your resume.
Whether or not you are actively pursuing a job, regular updates to a resume are an important part of career development. First, add the obvious – any new job titles, publications, presentations, etc. Then think about some of the skill sets that are relevant for your current career, or for your target job. Make sure that they come through easily to an outside reader. If in doubt, have a friend or family member review the resume and provide feedback.
2. Update your contact list.
Log those piles of business cards or other hard copy scraps into your Outlook contacts. Change any outdated addresses in your existing files.
3. Make a new contact and reconnect with another.
While you are going through your business cards, notes, and existing contact list, make note of a couple of people to contact in the new year. Send a few emails and meet someone for lunch.
4. Try something new.
The best way to get out of a rut, or even to spark increased satisfaction and success, is to try something new. Is there a course that you have been considering? Have you been wanting to try your hand at writing and publishing an article? Have you been contemplating some type of volunteer work? I find that January and February lend themselves to new ventures more than the busier minths of the summer and hoiliday season. Try something new and write back to PRN with your experience for others to share.
5. Help someone else.
Remember that networking is a two-way street. Think about ways that you can help a colleague or contact. Are there two people that you can connect? Is there a way to collaborate for mutual benefit?
