If you plan on job hunting in 2020, it might be time to check whether your current approach could use an update. Taking stock of your career goals and turning them into practical steps can help take you closer to securing your dream role. We’ve come up with four great ideas to kick things off.

1. Update Your CV

We all know that a good resume is a constant work in progress. That’s why giving it a facelift at regular intervals should be a top priority – especially if you’re looking to make a change.

Even if you’ve been in the same role for an extended period, you will still have updates to make. For example, promotions you’ve received recently, any additional responsibilities, special projects you’ve managed and new skills or awards you’ve gained. Refreshing your CV as you go can help keep the details as accurate as possible, rather than trying to think back on your achievements when you’re applying for a new role.

While you’re at it, check that your CV is well formatted, logically organised and has impeccable spelling and grammar. It may seem obvious, but many potential interviewers are turned off by glaring mistakes because it suggests a lack of care and attention to detail.

Don’t forget about LinkedIn as well. LinkedIn is like your online CV, so be sure to add any recent responsibilities, achievements and recommendations.

2. Clean Up Your Online Presence

No, we don’t just mean LinkedIn here! In this digital age, it’s easy to find a variety of information about a person simply by doing a five-minute internet search. Many jobseekers forget that potential employers will use this to learn more about their candidates, so it’s essential to audit your online presence.

Resolve to clean up your social media profiles at the start of this year. The most common platforms (aside from LinkedIn) are Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. While it is fine to have a social media presence, you need to ensure there is nothing inappropriate that is publicly available. Make sure you check your privacy settings and keep your personal content just between friends and family.

If you aren’t sure what others can see about you, do a quick Google search on yourself. Not happy with what you see? This is your time to change it.

3. Step Up Your Networking

Most people understand the importance of networking, but many aren’t actually sure how to go about it. Again, LinkedIn is a great place to start, but be strategic about finding valuable connections rather than just building up the numbers. You want to cultivate an audience that you can really engage with to achieve the best results.

Although online networking is important, don’t forget about in-person networking. This could be through industry events, conferences or meeting with colleagues and clients, to name a few. Once you’ve gained a wider network, ensure you keep in touch with these existing contacts so they haven’t drifted away when you need them most.

4. Develop a New Skill

The market is changing every day. To keep up with the rapid pace of growth, having up-to-date skills will give you an edge over other candidates. With a fresh year ahead of you, take this opportunity to acquire a marketable new skill to boost your career options.

There are many ways to do this – will find a variety of courses and webinars offered online, or you could invest in a formal qualification. These new skills will bolster your CV, keep you current with industry trends and make you more attractive to potential employers.

Summary

To maximise your chances of finding a new job in 2020, take time to review your job search approach and ensure your resume and online presence are up to date. This includes tidying your CV and LinkedIn profile, networking and positioning yourself as a candidate who will shine above the rest!

Southside Staffing are leaders in Commercial and Industrial recruitment, and we know how to give your application an edge, if you need help in refreshing your CV, contact us to get started and together we can find your dream role.

In the meantime, what are your job search resolutions for the New Year? We’d love to hear from you!