New Year New Search

2018 is officially here, and first quarter is traditionally a time of heavy hiring.  If you've been thinking about researching your employment options now is a great time to do so.

Figuring out how to get started is often the hardest part, so here are some basic tips for getting started.  Have specific questions, let us know.

• Start by setting a goal.  Why are you looking?  Is it for more money?  More flexibility? Better benefits?  A different culture?  If you haven't defined what you are looking for, finding it will be difficult if not impossible.
• Build your dream job.  Figure out what that looks like and write it down!  Writing it down is important because it helps to organize your thoughts.  Some things to consider include:  pay, location, industry, benefits, travel, and daily tasks.  Be specific and don't worry about how reasonable your desires are when putting this together.  That will come later.
• Update your resume.  It should be focused to your dream job.  And remember, your resume is a brochure, not a catalog.  You don't have to include everything.  Keep it relevant.
• Create a game plan.  Filling out online applications will only get you so far.  While I do recommend you spend some time doing that (I like Indeed and LinkedIn), you need to spend time searching off line as well.  Who can you reach out to within your family, friends and colleagues?  Research companies that meet your requirements and find out who you know that can help you get your foot in the door.  Update your LinkedIn profile.  Network, network, network. 
  
• Get started.  As much as creating a plan helps, don't get stuck in it.  Get to work and adjust as necessary
  

Happy Hunting!