We have turned the page on yet another year. Resolutions are being set and new goals are forming. When it comes to your career, are you tired of your mundane, underpaying or unchallenging job? There is no better time than the new year to explore new job opportunities. Start your new year’s job search off with a bang by utilizing our five quick tips for job hunting.

Before starting your search, make a list of your must-haves, wants and can’t-haves for your next job. Is salary important to you, but not as important as a good work-life balance? Or do you prefer the ability to work from home over a fancy title? Reflect on your past positions and do an inventory of what you liked and what aspect left something to be desired.

When you take this time to organize your wants and needs, think about both the big picture and small details. Rank the importance of company culture, salary, flexibility, leadership and more. Once you understand exactly what you want and need going into the job search, the process will be smoother and more timely.

Update your resume

While this may seem like a no-brainer, make sure your resume is polished to perfection. Have a friend or family member read it over to make sure there are no spelling mistakes or grammatical errors. When it comes to your resume, make sure it highlights your best self by giving detailed and concise accounts of your past experience and projects. Don’t just include what you’ve done, include what you’ve achieved.

We don’t recommend having it posted all over the internet, especially while you are still working your current job. Instead, work with a trusted recruiter who will make sure your resume will end up in the right hands.

Additionally, have your resume handy in multiple formats including Word and PDF. Keep a mobile version or save it in your email inbox so you can quickly send it to a hiring manager while you’re on the go.

Edit and update your social media

When job searching, you should always display yourself in a positive light. This includes on your virtual space. It’s more important than ever to make sure your social media presence is clean and professional.

When it comes to Facebook and Twitter, we recommend keeping your profiles as private as possible. Your potential next boss doesn’t need to view your spring break pictures or see the memes you have shared with family and friends. Make sure your profile pictures are clear, avoid heavy filters and show your smiling face.

On the other hand, LinkedIn is a great profile to keep public so hiring managers can explore your experiences. Keep your LinkedIn as professional as possible by showcasing past projects and giving detailed job descriptions. Make sure your photo is professional, too. Let your social media help you land a job, not deter employers from hiring you.

Network

Another great tip for job hunters is to attend networking events. Whether it’s a Toastmasters class in your office park or an event put on by your college’s alumni association, make an effort to show up to events like this. You never know who you could meet that could help you with your job searching efforts. After all, some experts say that 70 percent of jobs are landed by networking and knowing colleagues and friends.

Work with an agency

A direct-hire agency and recruiter can be your best friend during your job search. Not only can they advocate for you, they often have insider information and connections to facilities, companies and their senior leadership. If your resume has been sitting on someone’s desk for too long, your recruiter is not afraid to give them a call and tell them why you’re a great fit for the position.

Additionally, agencies will keep your job search confidential at all times. They will also provide you with honest feedback like why the position is open in the first place. Working with an agency will greatly improve your job search by saving you time and effort.

If you are interested in working with an agency to make your job search run a little smoother, GHR Search wants to help. Learn more here. We hope 2019 is your best year yet!