This post is an excerpt from my book Get Your Rear Into Gear: Job Searching Tips for Career Success – So I thought – being a new year (or a new financial year at least), it was time to hit the reset button and share some tips to point you in the right direction to get your career mojo back on track….
Use this guidance to energise your job search and take confident action today!
Tip 1: Get Your Rear into Gear – N.O.W. (No Opportunity Wasted)
Now is the time to take action! Stop putting off your job search and start creating momentum. If you don’t let employers know you’re available and ready, they simply won’t know you exist.
Too often, we procrastinate because we’re avoiding stress, rejection or simply stepping out of our comfort zone. But if you want to stand out and show employers you have what it takes, it’s time to move—urgently.
Start by telling yourself, ‘I have what it takes to do this.’ Push past the fear, try a new approach, and put your best foot forward. The job market isn’t waiting. With ongoing economic shifts, it’s more competitive than ever.
Here’s how to get started today:
- Connect with employers on LinkedIn and begin building your network.
- Organise your foundation tools to build success: resume, cover letter, LinkedIn profile and refresh your references.
- Do your research—understand what qualifications and skills your ideal employer expects.
- Begin your professional development journey and commit to being a lifelong learner. (I do it, and it’s not that hard)
- Draft your elevator pitch and practice sharing your strengths.
- Reach out to former colleagues and friends with a clear message: you’re available and looking for new opportunities.
Taking these steps builds confidence and prepares you to approach employers with clarity and purpose. It also signals to others that you’re proactive, professional, and ready.
Just like a boxer preparing for a big match, job seekers must train mentally and strategically. Visualise success and condition your mindset for it. Don’t wait for the staircase—just take the first step.
Martin Luther King Jr. said it best: ‘Take the first step in faith. You don’t have to see the whole staircase, just take the first step.’
Start now. Take action today. The first step leads to progress—and progress leads to success.
For more support and career coaching, visit www.alisonbannister.com.au or book a 1:1 session with me