Are you currently searching for a new job? If so, there is no better time than the New Year to reevaluate your job search tactics. In fact, by keeping these four New Year’s resolutions for job seekers in mind, you are almost guaranteed to find a great employment opportunity this coming year!

New Year’s Resolutions for Job Seekers #1: Establish Clear Goals

The first New Year’s resolution you should make in order to find a great new job is to establish clear goals for yourself and your career. After all, you will never be able to find your dream job if you don’t know what it is that you are looking for! So, take some time during this last month of the year to really think about the type of work you wish to pursue as well as which skills you want to put to work at your next job. Consider things such as the salary you would like to earn as well as any other factors it will take for you to feel satisfied with your job. Then, make a New Year’s resolution to remain focused on the goals that you have set next year.

New Year’s Resolutions for Job Seekers #2: Create a List of Target Employers

Now that you have established clear goals for your career, your next New Year’s resolution should be to create a list of potential employers. Start looking for employers who are in the field you are interested in being a part of and take some time to learn more about what they have to offer to you. Not only will this help you with narrowing down your options, it will also help you learn more about each employer so you can more effectively create a cover letter and talk intelligently at your interview.

New Year’s Resolutions for Job Seekers #3: Expand Your Professional Network

The next New Year’s resolution you should make is to take steps toward expanding your professional network. Keep in mind that the majority of employment opportunities are not advertised. As such, the only way you will find out about these job openings is to know someone with inside information about open employment opportunities.

This year, one of your New Year’s resolutions should be to expand your network so you will be more aware of potential employment opportunities. Don’t make your New Year’s resolution general, however, as you will be less likely to meet your goals. Rather, resolve to add a specific number of people to your professional network each week. That way, you will be sure to remain focused and to achieve your goals.

To find people to add to your professional network, try tapping into the following areas:

· Get in touch with former classmates or colleagues by talking to your current friends, by Googling their names or even by getting in touch with your college alumni center
· Use online networking Websites such as Twitter, LinkedIn, Ziggs, ZoomInfo or Facebook
· Join job search support groups in your area
· Join national organizations that are relevant to your career area

According to a poll conducted by ERE.com in 2008, 66% of recruiters planned on using LinkedIn in order to do their recruiting in 2009. Therefore, failure to take advantage of online networking tools can put you at a clear disadvantage.

New Year’s Resolutions for Job Seekers #4: Update Your Resume

Many job seekers have a difficult time finding a job simply because their resumes are not up-to-date. In order to increase your chances of landing the job of your dreams, make a New Year’s resolution to rework your resume and to make it up-to-date. Remember, your resume and cover letter provides potential employers with their first impression of you and what you have to offer. Therefore, you need to make certain it stands out from the competition. If necessary, you might want to consider hiring a professional resume service in order to help you fulfill this New Year’s resolution.

New Year’s Resolutions for Job Seekers #5: Practice Your Interview Skills

Once you are called in for an interview, it is up to you to conduct yourself in a manner that will help you land the job. Therefore, another one of your New Year’s resolutions should be to practice your interview skills. Ideally, you should conduct mock interviews with somebody you trust. This way, you will be more comfortable when the actual interview takes place and you will be sure to put your best foot forward during the interview process.