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Many people misunderstand the concept of prioritizing. Rather than a word that simple refers to your “to do list,” a priority should be something that you do instead of something else. When you are invited to two social gatherings on the same night but can’t attend both, you need to evaluate which will bring you the most pleasure and prioritize that one. The same rules should apply to your job search. Now that we are in 2013 it is time to re-prioritize the way you are looking for a new career. Here are three things you should move to the top of your list.

  1. Tap into your network. You’ve spent all your time making connections in your industry; now is the time to reach out to them. Let professionals you’ve networked with know that you’re looking for a job. Set up one on one meetings as often as possible. Invite a connection out for coffee before work or a drink after to discuss your industry and ultimately your job search. Also, use your online network through LinkedIn. You may have people in other parts of the country with whom you’ve connected and they may have some additional insight. Create a page title to reflect your best skills. Message some of your contacts to ask for endorsements or recommendations and update your status regularly to show that you are serious about looking for a new job.
  2. Customize your resume. You’ve heard this before; recruiters and other hiring professionals recommend that you personalize your resume for each job. The reason this gets said again and again is because it is good advice. Hiring managers want to see a resume that reflects their company and the open job. Rather than just clicking the submit button, study the job posting and description and determine how you can add some of these requirements to your existing skill set. Even if you believe that your resume is perfect for the job, change some of your wording around to better match the description.
  3. Continue networking. Building your network should be a lifelong career strategy. Many of us make connections while we are working but the best time to continue to meet new people is when you’re unemployed. Rather than attending a job fair go to a trade show or other industry event. Before you let someone know you’re looking for work find out what they do and how you might be able to help them. Make connections between your connections. People remember those who helped them.

Are you looking for a way to kick-start your career search in 2013? Contact Harvard Resource Solutions to see how our professional staff can help you.

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