Update, build up, and clean up: 3 things to do every year
Whether you plan to search for a new job this year or not, here are three things you should do every year so you’re always ready for a new opportunity.
Update your resume
Don’t wait until you’ve found the perfect job only to discover that you can’t get your resume ready in time. By regularly updating your resume—I recommend every year—you’ll be ready for unexpected opportunities and you’ll capture your accomplishments while you clearly remember them.
If you think that applying for a job is still a few years away, don’t spend too much time formatting. Simply capture work experience that is relevant to your future goals.
Build up your social media profile
Social media can connect you to more than just old friends, it can build your personal brand too. LinkedIn is the most common professional site and your profile can help you network with colleagues, people in the industry, and potential hiring managers. Set up a profile (see tips here) and start by connecting with current and former colleagues. Post and comment on articles relevant to your industry.
One of the most commons concerns of job seekers is that their boss/employer will know they're looking for a job because they are suddenly active on Linkedin. Remember, if you post and engage consistently, you don’t need to worry about hiding your sudden activity. Two tips:
Follow a schedule that you’ll be able to follow for the long haul. It’s better to post two articles a month for an entire year than suddenly posting every day for a month.
Share articles that are relevant to your industry and showcase your interests and expertise.
Some industries are more active on LinkedIn than others. There is still a benefit to creating your profile and networking, gaining exposure to new opportunities that connect to your job.
Other social media platforms can also promote your personal brand by demonstrating a passion for your work and highlighting your expertise. Just like with LinkedIn, posting consistently is key.
Clean up your social media profile
In researching options for a new medical professional, I searched Google for my top choices. For one doctor, my online search uncovered a negative review he had written about a farmer’s market. His lack of professionalism in his review caused me to go with a different doctor.
While you’re building up your career profiles, don’t forget to clean up your social media pages. Remove photos and postings that could be considered unprofessional or offensive. Employers will search and scrutinize your profiles.
Deciding what is offensive is highly subjective. It could include:
A trend in risky behavior, even if legal. A single photo of you drinking a beer with friends is no big deal. An Instagram profile filled with photos of you drinking with friends might raise a red flag.
Unprofessional language. The example I gave above falls into this category. I have no problem with someone providing criticism for bad service. However, I expect the language to be professional.
Polarizing political views in your posts and comments.
Too many social media posts that are clearly made during the day, while you should be working.
My general rule, would I want my posting or comment to represent me? Would I want my parents or kids to see it? Would I want my employer to see them? If you’re unsure, ask someone you trust.
Stay ahead of postings by reviewing every couple of months and delete or untag yourself from offensive postings. You might have forgotten what you wrote eight years ago but you’ll be amazed at what can be found by a potential employer.
