After a period of slow holiday weeks, it's easy to feel as if your job search has stalled out. All your hard work did not deliver the result you expected.
But there is good news. We are just about to push re-start.
Each year is a new opportunity to throw away any mistakes we've made in the last twelve months. And re-focus our time and attention toward new and better ideas.
Here are 11 tips to kick-start your job search in 2011:
1. Start setting daily, weekly and monthly goals
It's easy to be impulsive in job search. You lack the structure of your former company. So build structure by writing down ten goals to achieve each week. Choose two important and relevant goals per day.
2. Start networking with a purpose
There's a difference between socializing and networking with a purpose. So identify specific people you need to meet and set a plan to find them at local networking events, on LinkedIn or via your personal network.
3. Start connecting with others via social media
Complete your profile on LinkedIn and secure a minimum of 100 connections. Follow your target companies on Twitter, LinkedIn and Facebook. And begin to build influence and social credibility in advance of a job interview.
4. Start your morning early
If your morning routine is stale, resolve to start each day early in 2011. Suggest coffee meetings starting at 8:00 or sooner. Find networking events that start early. And create positive inertia for a productive day.
5. Start a newsletter
You worked so hard in 2010 to initiate new connections. Don't let them fade in 2011. Create a monthly newsletter or e-mail update to stay visible. And let your personality shine so others will want to read it.
6. Start sharing specific job search objectives
If your answer to "what are you looking for?" is vague or long-winded, sit down and write specifics. Describe your target position including function, level, geography and target companies. So others can help you.
7. Start attending new networking events
If you are too comfortable at your favorite networking event, look for one or two new events to attend. Expose your brand to a whole new crowd in 2011. Look for events in your industry or function (e.g. marketing).
8. Start helping others
Consider taking a productive day off and dedicate every hour of your day to supporting someone else. Get to know their objectives and search your network for relevant connections. Then introduce a few people.
9. Start an accountability group
If you or a few friends are not getting the big stuff done, start an accountability group. Meet weekly with a partner or a group of 4-6 others. Share your goals for the week and allow others to keep you on task.
10. Start smiling
Learn to smile when networking. A smile opens a door to others and says you are comfortable and confident. Others are more likely to help if they believe you are able to help yourself.
11. Start paying attention to your small wins
Keep a journal of the positive results each day. This will keep your focus positive and allow you to see momentum building. Share your wins with others and encourage them to share with you.
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