Good-bye 2020, Hello 2021: Tips for landing a new job in the new year

Is a job change on your list of goals for 2021? This year probably more than any other year, many of us have taken a step back, pausing to consider what’s most important in our lives especially as we’ve adjusted our normal day-to-day. Before you make the jump to a new job, here are some things to consider:

• Make a pros and cons list.
  Try making a list of the things in your current job that you enjoy doing and a list of things you don’t. While there are pros and cons to every job, this will help you know what you want more of and what you hope to do without.
• Research.
  Talk with someone you know with a similar job as yours at another company. They can provide you some insight into the pros and cons of their job / company. You may want to ask about day-to-day function of the job, would they recommend working there, are there jobs available, what types of benefits they receive, etc.
• Revamp your resume.
  You may have a lot of previous experience at another employer, but if it’s unrelated, how is it going to help? The reality is that signs of longevity and loyalty to any employer, as well as some of your skillsets, transcend to other companies. If you can demonstrate your success and tie skills and experience from your old job to your new job, that’s ideal.
• Attend networking events.
  If you don’t know someone who works at the company you are interested in, it may be beneficial to start networking. See if that company is offering any job career fairs or networking events. While It may be uncomfortable at first, it helps to put yourself out there and get to know people at that company and get a feel for the companies work culture.
• Search for jobs.
  While job searching online has become the norm, it’s important not to neglect those connections you made through networking events. Send notes to any connections you already have in your community or have made through networking events.
• Dress the part.
  Make sure you’re aware of the expectations before you find yourself at your first interview. You want to be sure to dress the part. First impressions are made quickly, so take the time to learn wardrobe expectations and make sure you are dressed for success.
• Try job shadowing before you decide.
  Chose to shadow someone in a similar position as you are applying for, observe and talk with them about their day-to-day functions. Don’t like what you see? It’s much better to discover that now than before you make a jump to a new job. Re-evaluate and pick another place to shadow

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