Now is a great time to get in shape for your professional future, according to Carla Snyder, vice president, business development of global human capital solutions company Lee Hecht Harrison’s Phoenix office.
"It doesn’t matter if you need to find a new job right away, think you might be looking in the future, or simply want to grow in the job you already have," Snyder says. "There are steps you can take now to boost your marketability, confidence and odds of success."
Snyder offers the following advice depending on how long you have before you need or want to make a career move.
If you have only 30 days:
- Define a realistic employment goal. It’s critical that you can tell people exactly the kind of work for which you are looking.
- Develop a positioning statement. Use this key communications tool when networking and in job search conversations.
- Recharge your resume. Make it a concise overview of what you have done in the past and can do in the future.
- Reach out to those you know. Touch base and share your employment goal with everyone you know.
If you have 90 days, you should also:
- Conduct a situation analysis. Identify what types of companies are likely to hire someone with your expertise and experience.
- Define target employers. Base your list on your analysis. So when the time comes, you aren’t pursuing the wrong targets.
- Expand your network. Use this time to expand the number of people who know you and your capabilities.
If you have 180 days or more, you should also:
- Stretch your imagination. Identify the skills and experiences you already have and those you need to develop.
- Enhance your skills. Take advantage of learning opportunities provided by your employer.
- Step up at work. Every day you should make a good impression and properly showcase your capabilities.
Snyder says that once your career fitness is at a healthy level, maintenance will be relatively easy. "Once you’ve gotten the hang of networking, it will be second nature for you to stay in touch with those you know and make meaningful connections with new people. Periodically update your resume to list your most recent accomplishments and you’ll be ready to seize the opportunities that come your way."
This article was last modified on January 6, 2023
This article was first published on December 16, 2005
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