Update your resume
The MOST important thing you can do when looking for work, regardless of the time of year, is to make sure your resume is up-to-date. In fact, we cover it in almost every one of our interview/job-seeking articles. However, in the spirit of Spring and new beginnings, you should definitely take the time to update your work experience on your resume. Even if you haven’t worked any new jobs since you last updated it, it pays to still take a look and review it. You may have picked up a few new skills, changed phone numbers, moved to a new address, and are possibly looking for a new type of job: all of which would require you to update information on your resume. A good rule of thumb is to review your resume at least twice a year, or once every six months; even if you are already working.
Freshen up your look
If you’re like most people, you probably take the opportunity to get some Spring cleaning done to get a fresh start for the rest of the year. Why not show your closet the same love? We all have those few outfits that we KNOW we look good in, but after awhile they can get a bit over-worn and stale. While you’re busy packing up old clothes you don’t wear anymore, think about picking up a few new go-to interview outfits. Looking your best helps you feel your best and a fresh new outfit can give you just the confidence boost you need going into your next interview.
Get connected with your network
After a long winter of not going out much, its important to reconnect with your professional network. In a perfect world, you would have stayed connected online; but it can be hard to maintain personal relationships through a screen. Once warmer weather hits try to meet up with members of your network. One of the best ways to do so is to go to career fairs or professional events. This not only gives you the opportunity to meet back up with your existing network, but to meet new people who you can connect with in the professional space. Getting the word out about yourself and your intentions to find work is one of the most effective ways to find new positions. Word of mouth is a powerful tool and your network is the best way to spread it.
Look into job fairs
As warmer weather comes, so too do job fairs. These are the perfect places to find new work opportunities. They give you the chance to connect with employers on a personal basis and make a better first impression than if you would have just applied online. They also give you a chance to talk to many different companies at one time. You be able to get as much information about several positions as you want and use it to help make the best decision on employment for you. Be sure to have an elevator pitch prepared for meeting with employers quickly, and if you need tips on how to put one together, don’t worry we’ve got you covered!
Practice your interview basics
Once you go through all the above steps, chances are you’ll be having an interview scheduled in no time; and odds are your interview skills may be a little rusty. Just like with everything, you want to make sure you freshen up your interview etiquette. If you can, find a few friends who would be willing to help you go through a mock interview. Practice your responses to different questions, pick up on any nervous ticks you may have, and make sure you know your resume top to bottom. If you aren’t able to get any friends to help, try checking out a staffing agency. Most will bring you in for an interview and would be more than happy to give you pointers on improving your resume and interview skills.