Set Yourself Up for Success this Year
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It’s a New Year, and that naturally makes most of us feel that a fresh start is possible. It’s a time for New Year’s resolutions like eating less or exercising. One common resolution that many of us make is to start a new career search. We have suggestions for some of the best ways to set you for success this year by preparing for the job search and interview process.

 

Preparing for the Job Search

The first steps toward a new job in the New Year start with an updated resume. While many jobs require you to fill out an application, having a concise, well-written resume is still essential for helping you snag an interview. Make sure the resume is free of errors, has an accurate employment history, and is easy to read.

 

You should also clean up your social media profiles, whether it’s a professional forum like LinkedIn or a more personal site like Facebook. Keep in mind the employer you’re targeting will probably research to see the kinds of posts you’ve put out there for the world to see.

 

Speak with your references to let them know the kinds of jobs you’ll be applying to. Make sure they’re ready for the employer’s call and prepared to help you put your best foot forward.

 

Consider whether learning some new skills will help you move ahead in your career? Is there any training or certifications you need that will add weight to your resume and improve your chances of landing a new job?

 

Finally, get your wardrobe ready for an on-site interview. It’s coming, so preparing for the job search now will allow you to focus on improving your interview skills. What skills do you need to ace your next job interview?

 

Five Key Suggestions to Improve Your Next Interview

Once you’ve made it to the interview process, there is a whole new set of hurdles to overcome. Here are our top five suggestions to make a great impression during a face-to-face interview:

  1. Prepare for the interview by rereading the job description. Consider how your skills fit the role and are prepared to share that with the interviewer.
  2. Arriving at an interview late is just bad form, so prepare to arrive at least 15-minutes early just to be safe.
  3. Dress for success. Even if the role is in construction, where you’ll wear jeans all day, come to the interview in your best clothes.
  4. During the interview, sit straight and practice proper professional body language and manners to leave them a good impression.
  5. At the end of the interview, thank the hiring manager for their time. Ask for their card so you can send an email thank you right after the interview is over. This may seem like a formality that is easy to skip, but it is good form and designed to impress.

 

Setting yourself up for success in 2020 will help you avoid job search mistakes that could ruin your chances for a new career.

 

If you’re struggling with this process, sometimes a recruiter can be your best friend. Twin City Staffing is standing by to help you put your best foot forward. Contact us today.