<p>There are a couple of goals I have for the year ahead that are worth noting, and that I think would be helpful for anyone. </p>

<p>My first resolution advice is to take control of your career.</p>

<p>Remember, nobody cares about your career more than you. </p>
<p>Take control — you are accountable for change! Here are some quick ideas for how to get more fire in your career:</p>
<ol>
<li>If you are job searching, change your game and learn new search techniques.</li>
<li>If you are stuck in your job, develop your Plan B and get out.</li>
<li>If you are waiting for that promotion, ask for it the right way.</li>
<li>If you are interviewing outside or within your company, focus on their needs. It's not about you.</li>
<li>If you want to learn new skills or develop new techniques, commit to a development program.</li>
</ol>

<p><strong>Job search restart</strong></p>

<p>My second resolution is to ramp up your job search. If you didn't land your dream job yet, it's time to change your game this year.</p>
<ol>
<li>Stop just applying online and waiting, start networking to get in the "back door."</li>
<li>Juggle 10 real job opportunities at one time; play the odds game rather than aiming for just one dream job.</li>
<li>Submit more than just a résumé. Stand out with a cover letter and something new: A candidate packet.</li>
<li>Get fluent on LinkedIn and do targeted networking to find recruiters and hiring managers of target jobs.</li>
<li>Update your interview skills. Times have changed, and you need to learn new techniques and be well prepared.</li>
<li>Phone interviews are on the rise, yet you won't get the face-to-face interview if you blow it on the phone.</li>
</ol>
<p>Take the next 30 days to focus on your career and learn new techniques for today's highly competitive employment era. Buy a few books, start networking, and Invest in a career coach to speed things up.</p>