New Year’s Day 2012

Do you consider New Year’s Day a time to start anew, or do you consider New Year’s Day simply a time to continue your existing path?

I suppose the answer to this question is that it depends.  If you are pleased with your life and want it to continue with perhaps only some minor course corrections, then you should continue as you are.  However, if 2011 has not been particularly kind to you, perhaps it is time to redefine your action program.

For individuals who are seeking employment or are unhappy with their present situation, New Year’s Day can be an opportune time to change the strategy used to obtain a satisfying employment and life. Here are my suggestions for you to use in developing a new strategy:

1.  Objectives - What – It is important that you clearly define your objectives for 2012.  Objectives should meet the SMART test - Specific, Measurable, Acceptable, Reasonable, and Time-Based.

2.  Strategy - How – Based on your defined objectives, you should develop strategies for achieving your objectives.

Developing a strategy without first establishing clear objectives is the same as choosing a means of transportation for taking a trip before deciding where you are going.  Here is an example that you might use as you develop your own strategy:

Objective:

Specific – A position in retail – sales or operations

Measurable – Hours per week in focused job search - 25 hours, Contacts per week - 5, interviews per week - 2, job offers - 3

Acceptable – Criteria for yourself, family, and others – relocation, shift         work, travel required

Reasonable – What were your previous earnings salary range for         position you are seeking

Time-Based – Typically you can expect one month search time for     each $10,000 per year target salary

Strategies:  This blog contains numerous ideas for identifying job opportunities and obtaining job offers including resume preparation, Internet searches, and interviewing skills.  I continue to recommend extensive use of networking among friends, family, job fairs, nonprofit organizations, previous work relationships as a proven strategy for becoming locating and landing a job.

These steps may seem like too much work; however, give them a try and measure your results.

Best wishes for a successful 2012!  Please share your job search successes with readers of this blog.

Thanks, Glyn