Should you ramp up your job search now or wait until 2013?
Veterans wait to speak to a representative from Securitas during a job fair introducing veterans to careers in the security and private investigations industry at Yankee Stadium in the Bronx. (Sept. 28, 2012) Credit: AP
During a sports game, no matter how a team is faring, its players rely on their coach to share a plan for winning the game. The same is true when it comes to your job search. Whether you've been making progress or you're in a rut, it's up to you -- the coach -- to determine your next move.
At this point in the year, you have two options in your playbook: ramp up your job search or take time off until 2013. Both moves have their payoffs, but only you know what's right for Team You.
-- Customer service
-- Information technology
-- Sales
-- Administrative
-- Business development
-- Accounting/finance
-- Marketing
You may also want to research newly created positions within companies. According to the forecast, jobs that didn't exist five years ago are now growing to meet new technology demands, including positions tied to:
-- Social media
-- Storing and managing data
-- Cybersecurity
-- Financial regulation
-- Promoting diversity inside and outside the organization
-- "Green" energy and the environment
-- Global relations
-- Seasonal work: Companies that hire temporary workers for the upcoming holiday season begin looking for those employees as early as October. You can gain work experience, references and a paycheck with seasonal work. Also, seasonal positions can sometimes lead to permanent jobs.
-- Volunteer: Volunteering is a great way to gain experience, fill a résumé gap and meet others in your field.
-- Network: Attend industry or general networking events, or try online networking through social-media sites such as LinkedIn. Let your family and friends know what kind of position you're interested in, and connect with others who have similar interests.
-- Workshops, training or more education: There may not be enough time left in the year to earn a degree, but you can participate in short-term workshops or training programs: This is another way to avoid résumé gaps, and it also shows potential employers that you've stayed up-to-date on industry advancements.
-- Revamp your résumé: If you've been keeping yourself busy during the back half of the year, you'll have plenty of new material to include on your résumé. Add new roles, remove outdated activities and be sure to create a customized résumé for each position.
