The holiday break is the perfect time to reflect on the year and plan for the future. A lot has happened in 2018. Does your résumé reflect that? You never know when a new opportunity will present itself. If you wait until your next job search, updating your résumé will be a mammoth task. By incrementally updating your résumé, you keep the task manageable, the content accurate, and the descriptions dynamic.
Take advantage of the extra downtime the holidays afford with these best practices, according to Cheryl Hyatt of Hyatt-Fennell Executive Search:
1. Update your résumé. Augment the job descriptions with any new duties, accomplishments, or roles.
2. Update your LinkedIn profile. Translate the new content from your résumé to your online presence. Don’t forget to update your photo.
3. Reflect on your successes—and failures. Spend some time in contemplation and gratitude. What lessons can you glean from your experiences over the past year?
4. Set goals for the coming year. What do you want to accomplish in 2019?
5. Thank those who made it possible. You didn’t make it through this year alone. Send a few personal notes to those who helped you with projects and development throughout the year.
Setting aside a few hours now will help you move forwards into the year with focus and the resources you need to succeed.
