Begin 2012 With A New Career

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Make sure to have business cards wherever you go. If you don't currently have a job, have a simple business card made with your name, profession and contact information. Photo: wonderland
Make sure to have business cards wherever you go. If you don't currently have a job, have a simple business card made with your name, profession and contact information. Photo: wonderland

At the dawn of a new year many people set career goals. If you're looking for a new job or even a new career, it's time to roll up your sleeves and get to work.

If you were planning on scouring the want ads, you may have to adjust your thinking. "If you see an ad for a position posted, it's almost too late," says Becky Bates, director of career services at The Art Institutes International Minnesota. Bates suggests you tap into the "hidden job market" and get to that position before it's posted. That means networking.

"Go to networking functions that cater to your field and go alone, because you won't be able to hide behind your friends," adds Grace Shurley, career services advisor at The Art Institute of Las Vegas. Shurley suggests you stand or sit in the middle of the room and get out of your comfort zone, because you're not likely to make new contacts within it.

Make sure to have business cards wherever you go. If you don't currently have a job, have a simple business card made with your name, profession and contact information, says Shurley. And while you're at it, make sure your LinkedIn profile is current and start Tweeting, suggests Nolta. "Follow the companies and industries you are interested in so you can get the latest information about them." ARA

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Stacy Davis Gates