It’s that time of year again! When we begin to reflect on the past 12 months and start to think about the year ahead. The new year, and a new decade, is just around the corner, so it’s the perfect time to make some career boosting plans.
Whether you are looking for a new job, a promotion, or just want to take the next step in your professional life, here are 10 resolution ideas that can help you make 2020 YOUR year!
1. Update Your Resume
Even if you aren’t on the job hunt right now, it’s a good idea to give your CV a little brush up. You might have accomplished a lot in the year, so take the time now to update it while it’s still fresh. Plus, it will save you so much time if and when you do want to start sending out your resume.
2. Refresh Your LinkedIn
For the same reason as above, updating your profile on LinkedIn is a great way to keep your public professional profile fresh and up to date. Recruiters are always on the lookout on LinkedIn and if you don’t have that recent project or accomplishment on your profile, you might miss out on your dream tech job!
3. Network and Connect More
Depending on your personality, networking can be awkward and draining, or it can be a fun time to meet new people. No matter which camp you find yourself in, more networking should definitely be the top of your resolution list!
Connecting with the right people can really give you a helping hand in your career success. If you're considering a job change, widening your professional network can only be a good thing. You can find support from other professionals, find useful connections in the industry or find job leads with specific companies.
Why not apply for an invite to attend one of our WomenTech Network events in 2020?
4. Find a Mentor
A great mentor can help guide and motivate you to take the next step in your career and reach your professional goals. If you don’t have anyone in mind who could mentor you right now, then perhaps your networking resolution will bring you that one step closer! If you are on the lookout for a mentor, try to choose someone you admire, who has industry knowledge and has the time to help you! WomenTech Network is a great start if you want to find a mentor.
5. Learn a New Skill
No matter what tech field you are in or what level of your career, there is always something new to learn that could benefit your career. If there is something that you’ve wanted to try, then now is the time! Whether it is directly related to your career or not, a new skill will enhance your professional and personal development and can set you ahead of the game when it comes to clinching a new job or a promotion.
6. Read More Career-Related Books
No matter your job and no matter your goals, there is a book out there that will speak to you and help you. Whether you wish to improve performance, learn more about a programming language, change your professional outlook, or better your productivity, considering reading a part of your professional development.
7. Subscribe to at Least One Industry Blog or Publication
The tech industry by definition is one which moves at high speed! Advances are made almost daily, and trends shift just as fast. Staying up to date on industry news is imperative if you want to stay at the top of your game. Subscribe to your industry or field publications, follow experts on social media or sign up for their blogs to stay fresh and in the know!
8. Stretch Yourself in Your Role
Things can get stale and boring when we stick within the confines of our expectations. Think about how you can go above and beyond in your role. Maybe speak with your supervisor or boss to find out if there are other projects you can be plugged into, or other ways you can join in to expand your experience and knowledge. Being proactive in this way will get you noticed and can open up doors to new opportunities.
9. Go After Opportunities (Even If You’re Not Fully Qualified)
This might sound counter-productive and will certainly FEEL counter-intuitive but trust us!
There is a widely reported statistic that men apply for jobs when they meet only 60% of the qualifications, but women will only apply when they meet 100%.
A long history of work discrimination has led to many women struggling with putting themselves forward for jobs they aren’t fully qualified for but up for the challenge. But this can stop with a new year resolution to believe in yourself and your abilities! At the end of the day, the only opportunities you miss are the ones you don’t go in for.
10. Resolve to Take the Next Step in Your Career
This doesn’t have to mean quitting your job or throwing yourself into the job hunt. It can be looking for ways to add to your current role or thinking about what it would take to get that promotion. Then start putting a plan together and put it in motion. It can be a simple conversation with your boss to let them know you’re ready and willing to take your career development further. Or, if you are ready for a bigger change, join one of our events armed with your resume! In any case WomenTech Network events are a good way to boost your career!
Whatever your career resolutions, we wish you a very successful 2020! 🎉
