By now, you’re probably chipping away at your New Year’s resolution: go to the gym more often, learn a new language, start a garden, stop biting your nails, etc…
Those are all worthy goals for 2012 and with enough dedication, you’ll be speaking Mandarin and shedding pounds in no time
.
But the New Year is also a perfect opportunity to take stock of your job or your pursuit of one. Like a car in need of an oil change, we too often forget about the basic maintenance required to stay sharp.
In case you haven’t added any career-related goals to your resolution list, here are 12 that will help you gain momentum professionally in 2012:1. Update your resume
Even if you have a job and don’t plan on leaving, you just never know. Your resume should always be fresh and presentable. Once you update it, have a friend with a sharp eye look it over for errors. That way, when an exciting opportunity comes along, you’ll be ready.
2. Back up your computer files
Put all your files on a backup hard drive or server like
Dropbox. If you have a job, make sure you ask about your company’s server and how to use it. That way, if your computer crashes this year, you’ll have a plan to fall back on. Don’t be that person who forgot to back it up!
3. Ask about or reassess your 401(k)
See if your company offers a 401(k) retirement plan. If you can’t afford to max out your 401(k), at least contribute enough to get your
employer’s matching contribution (aka “free money”).
4. Network, Network, Network
Set a goal to meet with 1-2 people in your industry each month, or folks who could help connect you to the industry you want. Again, even if you’re in love with your job and could never imagine leaving, maintaining and
growing your network is one of the best things you can do for your career. Keep your options open and your contact list robust. If setting up 1-2 lunches a month is too taxing, join a business networking group and attend monthly meetings.
5. Learn a new job skill
In between Mandarin verb conjugations and your flourishing garden, find time to add a technical skill to your repertoire and make yourself more valuable professionally. Most people like being asked for their knowledge and expertise, so sidle up next to a friend or co-worker and gain a new skill for free.
Danny Rubin is a national news consultant for media research firm Frank N Magid Associates. He is a former television news reporter, lives in Washington, D.C. and tweets as @dannyhrubin.Get our best career advice delivered to your inbox. Sign up today!Brazen Life is a lifestyle and career blog for ambitious young professionals. Hosted by Brazen Careerist, we offer edgy and fun ideas for navigating the changing world of work -- this isn't your parents' career-advice blog. Be Brazen.Read more posts on Brazen Life »
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