If you are unemployed and looking to for a new job, there is no better time than the new year to start taking a fresh approach toward landing the job of your dreams. By following these simple job search tips, you will finally land the job you have been looking for.

Step #1: Set Aside the Right Amount of Time

The first step you need to take toward getting a new job is to make sure to set aside plenty of time for your search. As such, you should consider your search for a new job to be your new job. In other words, you should expect to invest a good amount of time into your search and you should approach your job search with the same commitment as you would your job. If necessary, find a quiet space in your home or somewhere in your community – such as a meeting room at your local library or even a restaurant – where you can conduct your job search and work on creating a resume and cover letter for the jobs you are applying to.

In order to make certain you are using your time efficiently and effectively, make certain to gather your supplies beforehand and to create a schedule for yourself. Of course, a schedule won’t do you any good if you don’t stick to it, so make sure to hold to the schedule that you create.

Step #2: Think Creatively

Thanks to the high unemployment rates, the competition for jobs is far stiffer than before. Therefore, you will need to think outside of the box in order to find employment opportunities and to grab the attention of potential employers. Try to think of creative ways to use your interests, background and skills in the workplace – even if it is put to use with a position that is different from the one you have held for the last several years.

Step #3: Make Certain Your Resume is Up-To-Date

Updating your resume is an essential component to landing a job interview. Not only do you want to make certain you have the most current information on your resume, you should also review it to make certain it is complete and accurate. Furthermore, be certain it is appropriately geared toward the type of job you are trying to land.

Once you do update your resume, you should go beyond simply mailing it in when applying for specific jobs. Rather, post it online with Websites such as Yahoo! HotJobs. This will help you learn more about open employment positions while also making your information available to potential employers.

Although online job search sites offer a great way get in touch with potential employers, don’t forget that it is important to meet with people face to face as well. Therefore, if you have a job that you are particularly interested in pursuing, take the time to stop by personally and hand your resume to the hiring manager. While you shouldn’t push for an interview on the spot, be certain to express your interest in working for the company and ask if there is an application that you should complete as well. If possible, complete the application right there before you leave.

Step #4: Take Advantage of Social Networks

Social networking is becoming increasingly more commonplace and, as such, is becoming an increasingly more important tool for professionals who are looking for a fresh career start. Not only can you potentially land a job directly through one of the people in your network, you might also get in touch with new people through a social networking site that can help you land your next job. Keep in mind that simply setting up a profile is not enough to take full advantage of social networks, however, as you need to become actively engaged in the networks in order to obtain more contacts and expand your possibilities.

Of course, you don’t have to join online social networking Websites in order to expand your network. Joining career clubs or job clubs will also help you get in touch with potential employers while also making it easier for you to explore employment opportunities. You can also meet other job hunters through these clubs, which will make it easier for you to exchange helpful tips and job leads with one another.

Step #5: Take on Temporary Jobs

While you likely have your sights upon landing a full time job, you shouldn’t turn your nose up at a temporary position. Not only will this help bring in the money that you need, it may also help you explore other career possibilities while also helping to expand your professional network. Before signing up with a temp agency, however, you should check to make sure it has a proven track record with placing workers who have the same types of skills and career interests as you.