Improve Your Job Search This Year

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Attendees discuss employment and the job search process with a career counselor at Pope Field at Fort Bragg, N.C.
Attendees discuss employment and the job search process with Jay Brown, a certified career counselor with the Army Community Service Employment Readiness Program, during the Entrepreneur Essentials event at the Soldier and Family Readiness Group Center on Pope Field at Fort Bragg, N.C., Nov. 7, 2022. (Audra Satterlee/U.S. Army photo)

You've been searching for a new job for the past six months without much success. Most days, you feel like you're beating your head against the wall. Maybe it's time to throw out your old approach and try something new. After all, the new year is here, and it's a perfect time to take a fresh look at things.

Set Realistic Expectations

Setting realistic career expectations is key to conducting a successful job search. If you are not a seasoned worker, look for positions that will let you broaden your skills. You may not secure that management job this time, but you will be well-positioned for future opportunities.

Reevaluate Your Situation

If you are employed and seeking greener pastures, reassess your situation. Now that you've had a chance to look around, you might decide things are not that bad where you are.

Review Your Resume

Your resume may not be attracting attention, and it could be time to spiff it up a bit. Ask someone to critique your resume, and be open to their suggestions. You can also get advice from the Resume Center.

Reevaluate Your Approach

Looking for a job is a full-time job in itself. If you are dedicating a few hours a week to your job search, consider stepping up your efforts.

Take a Break

Sometimes you just need to get away from the stress of job searching. If you can afford to, give yourself permission to take a week or two off. You will be surprised how your outlook can change.

Sometimes all it takes is a little adjustment for things to click. Be open to making some changes in your job search strategy, and before you know it, you will be the one dispensing job search advice.

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