The start of a new year is often a turning point where we commit to making a change or realising a particular goal that has been on the ‘backburner’ for several months, especially once bonuses are secured. With new headcount budgets coming into effect, chances are you’re more likely to receive a headhunting call or see a job posting in the first few months of the year.

Here are five tips that work together to help support a more proactive approach to career planning.

Set goals. While your overall goal may be to find a job or secure a new role, it may be helpful to establish smaller steps as interim objectives. By focusing on just the outcome, you risk setting yourself up for disappointment. Establishing and realising shorter term goals helps give you a sense of accomplishment and keeps you motivated, whether it be reworking your resume, identifying networking opportunities or simply maintaining a positive approach.

Build your brand. Think of your search for work as a new business venture. You have a product or service that you are looking to launch in the market, only this time it’s you. Think about and define your own unique selling proposition in a way that addresses the needs of your stakeholders, or potential employers, via the right channels. While there are endless initiatives to this end, the key ones include developing effective marketing tools in the form of a resume and profile, and enhancing your online presence. At a minimum, this includes social networking sites, and, depending on the industry, a personal blog or website where you can showcase your experience, skills or portfolio.

Network. There are so many new opportunities available to expand your network and keep abreast of current best practice or trends and challenges in your industry. Virtual networking via social media channels provides greater reach but it’s not a substitute for earning a positive reputation through face-to-face contact. Consider a more active role on an industry or local committee, which can act as a platform for others to see how you operate at first hand, as well as helping you stay abreast of current trends. You may also choose to work with a recruiter – but select wisely. A good consultant will work with you to better understand the opportunities at hand, as well as advise on how best to position yourself for specific roles.

Stay current. In a digital society it is inexcusable not to have done your research and have a firm understanding of key issues, trends and players in your target industry or occupation. This is even more important if you are out of work and out of the loop. Building your personal brand and networking also go a long way towards remaining current on what is happening in the market, and will help you present your skills within the current business context, as well as demonstrate an in-depth understanding of macro issues.

Maintain a positive approach. Securing a new job can be a truly rewarding and fulfilling experience, but it can also be an exercise in frustration. While you need to be prepared for setbacks, it is imperative to maintain a positive approach and move on quickly in the face of disappointment. If you set smaller interim objectives, you should have some shorter term ‘wins’ along the way to keep you motivated. Remember, the candidate who appears to be frustrated or desperate at an interview is unlikely to secure the job, and while you may experience some of these emotions, be careful to park them at the door. A positive and confident (not overly) attitude will help ensure you make a good impression, and even if you are not selected for the role, may lead to a follow-up call or a referral for a subsequent job opening. Recruiters will agree that employers do come back to discuss candidates who impressed, but were not quite the best fit for the role at the time, Make the most of every interview you are granted.

Gina McLellan, Director Asia, Talent2.
For more information, please contact: Hilda Ng, Talent2 (Singapore), hilda.ng@talent2.com, +65 6511 8555.