5 steps to realising your New Year job resolutions in the UAE

Changing a job or landing a better one is of high importance for many of us on our list of New Year resolutions followed with losing weight and spending more time with the family. Yet, many of us still end the year with the scales showing the same weight as we’d started in the beginning of the year and still stuck in the job we hate.

Research shows that one of the top 10 most popular New Year's resolutions is job-related but as complacency sets in the months that follow, this important goal is forgotten and never achieved.

Even though jobs offers are not pouring in our mailbox, there are bright chances that you can land one if you keep your New Year resolution at the top of your mind and follow some simple steps that will help you realize it.

1. Get organized, get real: It’s very important that you set your goals clearly, organize yourself to pursue them and get realistic about what can be done and avoid what seems too over ambitious.

Looking for a job is a job in itself and you need to spare some time each day to do that job. Apply for jobs that you are qualified for and not the ones you will never land.

Identify what you want to accomplish professionally in the year ahead and write them down listing them in priority. Your goals may include being more efficient at work, getting a promotion or landing a totally new job.

Make sure these goals are attainable and then take stock at the end of each month or a quarter of what you’ve done and what you’ve not.

2# Create a strong online presence: The most successful people in today’s world are very active in the online world. Whether it’s LinkedIn, Twitter or any other social networking website, people who have a presence there and are active users will be the ones who will be noticed by many and will remain fresh in their minds.

And, remember, here you will meet many employers and they want to know as much about you as possible. Online presence is definitely an asset and can help fulfill your resolution for the year ahead.

3# Grow your network: Whether it’s in the real or the virtual world, it’s good to know as many people as you can. Never forget that most jobs come from the people you already know and referrals are fast picking up as far as recruitment is concerned.

You can also become a member of a group or an organisation and meet like-minded people in the same or different industries. You will get to know many new people and through them open many options.

4# Add to your knowledge and expertise: Even though you may have been out of school for many years now, it’s always good to learn something new or sharpen your skills. Whether it’s a new language or a technical course relevant to your field, get something additional to add value to your CV. You can also earn a certification. This will make you a bigger asset to your company and help you find more career options.

5# Follow-up:  This step is as important as applying for a job.  Without being too pushy, follow up with your potential employer via email or thank you note to show that you are serious about the job. There have been many instances when a professional follow up has helped jobseekers land a job.

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