How To Start Your Job Search Right In 2013

Here are things to do NOW to maximize your job search chances in 2013:

1. Think.

Confirm your target industry and the job function you want to go for. Decide on your ideal lifestyle, work environment and compensation. Identify your career objectives and weigh these against any family or financial constraints. (For example, what does your cash balance imply about how long you have to search?)

2. Update your marketing materials.

It’s not just about the resume. You also need an online profile, a networking pitch, and a cover letter template. You may need a more professional LinkedIn photo, or you may need to adjust your settings or learn how to use special features and applications. During the holidays, your networking should be focused on developing rapport—you shouldn’t go to parties to talk about your job hunt. But you will need a way to talk about yourself and your job search in the follow-up meetings you schedule after the holidays, and now is the time to develop it. In addition to a cover letter template, you need a cover email template that is much shorter than the traditional letter. Refine your marketing material now, before you hit the market in force in 2013.

3. Research your target companies and industries.

You need to be ready to talk to people at the start of January in a way that shows you know their industry, their company and their concerns. Your marketing preparation will enable you to identify your skills, expertise and accomplishments; you need the research to translate how your skills, expertise and accomplishments will bring value to your target companies.

4. Organize your network.

Input all those new contacts from your holiday networking into a comprehensive contact database. Identify and prioritize who you will follow up with in January, February and onward. See who you haven’t yet reconnected with and plan a holiday mailing now to rekindle connections in an unassuming way in advance of the new year push.

5. Get your “office” in order.

If you are unemployed, your job search is your full-time job. Organize your workspace with enough light and adequate supplies. Know when you do your best work so you can schedule your job search activity for the appropriate times. Choose a contact management system for your networking and build a spreadsheet or paper system to track what you’re doing.