Blog Post: New Year’s Career Resolutions

2.)  Keep a Confident Attitude and Strive to Build and Maintain Momentum

By developing a plan and sticking to it, you are setting yourself apart from a lot of people who have lost confidence and are not maintaining a high level of job search activity. The result is less competition for you, so take positive advantage of this and increase your lead development.

3.)  Explore New Career Options

Go in what many may see as a risky direction by exploring new career opportunities that interest you. Research new developments in various fields and attend events sponsored by an organization on the periphery of your current area of interest in order to expose yourself to new ideas. Gain introductions to people in those fields to get their insights as well as introductions to decision makers who could hire you. Take a chance at making a change to a career that allows you to follow your interests and your passion.

4.)  Consider Temporary, Part-time and Project Opportunities

Even though companies may be looking to fill less full-time positions, they may increase their need for workers to fill temporary assignments, part-time positions and project-oriented roles. While these may not be the best match for your needs and interests, they can provide you with cash-flow while you continue to look for full-time opportunities. Also, these contingency positions can turn into full-time jobs down the road.

5.)  Develop and Maintain a High Level of Learning

Now may be the time to start on a new career path by taking courses and seeking degrees and certifications in new fields. In addition to advancing your career, you must continue to develop the knowledge bases and skill sets that you need to accomplish objectives in all aspects of your life. Increased flexibility in both work schedules and educational programs support learning objectives. Keep up with the issues and trends that affect your career by being well-read and well-connected with your colleagues.

6.)  Increase and Improve Your Professional Relationships

Along with a commitment to learning comes the opportunity to stay connected to your network of contacts by attending seminars, conferences and other events where like-minded individuals congregate. Take advantage of these opportunities to meet new people and share ideas of common interest. Stay in touch with those individuals who are supportive of you and bring something of value to each conversation.

Have a healthy and prosperous 2009, and make it the year of strong commitment to your career success!

 Brad Taft is the Chief Career Strategist of Taft Resource Group, a career transition and outplacement consulting firm in Scottsdale . He supports individuals in planning and implementing campaigns to land new career opportunities. Learn more about career transition issues at www.WorkingMyWay.com and www.AgelessInAmerica.com.