One of the most helpful things you can do is to start polishing your search methods as soon as possible so that you can dive into the 2018 job listings with a rejuvenated attitude. At Professional Résumé Services, we have compiled an assortment of helpful questions to ask when job hunting and writing a professional résumé to start your new job search.

What Do You Want the Most?

If you aren’t yet sure what type of job you’re looking for, your search will only prove to be complicated and confusing. Try to think about the job that best suits you or your best talents and how they fit into the job market. What job title and responsibilities are you interested in? Do you want to work independently, as part of a team, or both? Do you like short-term projects or long-term projects? Who would you report to? Who would report to you? Think about why you’re searching for a new career. Consider whether you want to change who you work for or what your work is entirely. Evaluate everything about your work experiences and desires thus far, including the benefits and disadvantages of your present job and what you want from a future job. Then you can begin to take the next step forward. 

Is Your Résumé Current?

While ideally your résumé is customized for a specific job, having an up-to-date résumé targeted for a specific “type” of position is the next best thing. So if you’ve taken on additional responsibilities in your current job, or you’ve changed your job target, or you’ve added new training or educational credentials, now is the time to talk with your résumé writer about updating your résumé. (And if you don’t have a résumé at all, now is definitely the time to put one together! A professional résumé writer can help!)

Do I Need a LinkedIn Profile?

If you don’t already have a profile in LinkedIn, it’s a good idea to create one. A LinkedIn profile doesn’t replace the résumé…it complements it. LinkedIn is a valuable tool when it comes to job searching and can put you in contact with recruiters from companies across the country. Or, someone in your network might be interested in recommending you, and forward your LinkedIn profile URL.  Whether you’re setting up your profile for the first time or need to revamp it, it always helps to get as specific as possible. Tag your profile with keywords pertaining to the industry you want to work in. This helps recruiters locate you, meaning they can see what you can offer their companies. Yes, this is something your résumé writer can help you with.