A new year is upon us and many job seekers and potential job seekers are considering what they want to accomplish on the job in 2018.
Whether you are looking to get a new career on track, re-enter the workforce or move to the next level in your field, there’s probably one thing that rings true for every job search: It’s hard work. Yet, like so many other things, a well-researched plan will greatly increase your chances of success.
Here are a few ideas that will ensure you have a well-researched career plan for 2018 and beyond.
Know where the jobs are.
This is especially important if you are just starting your career or re-entering the workforce. Learn which career fields are in high demand and what types of jobs within those fields may be a match for you. This is a great way to not only increase your career options, but it is also a more secure path to longevity and advancement as these fields are expected to continue growing.
In the Lincoln Trail region – which includes Breckinridge, Grayson, Hardin, LaRue, Marion, Meade, Nelson and Washington counties – high demand career fields include manufacturing, healthcare, business services, transportation/ distribution/logistics and food and beverage production.
Further, take some time to learn about the employers in these fields. What product or service do they offer? What positions have they advertised lately?
You can learn a great deal about local employers through their company websites, industry publications and sites like LinkedIn. Follow the employers that interest you on social media and take a few minutes to set up Google alerts so you can easily keep up with news about a company or overall career field.
Grow your network.
One of the best ways to learn about employers in your area and the opportunities they offer is through other people. Building and maintaining your professional network is one of the most constructive things you can do, even if you’re not looking for a career opportunity. The people in your network can be invaluable in helping you understand a company’s needs, its history and its hiring forecast.
For example, if you’re a younger job seeker, reconnect with a former teacher or professor. Educators are more and more in tune with what’s happening in the job market and can often provide insight and referrals.
In addition, make an effort to know more about the professional backgrounds of the people you know, be it within your own family, at your place of worship, through a volunteer organization or in your neighborhood.
Seek out professional support.
There are many possibilities for professional advice as you research your job search plan. And the good news is, they won’t cost you a penny. These include mentors, fellow members of a professional organization, teachers and career counselors at educational institutions.
Plus, at the Kentucky Career Center – Lincoln Trail, we’re here to help job seekers improve their skills and find better careers. We work hand-in-hand with employers large and small throughout the region, often acting as an extension of their human resource departments. Pair that with our strong partnerships with education and training providers and a broad range of community partners, and job seekers are sure to benefit from the expertise of our career coaches.
If you’re looking for a better career outlook in 2018, contact the Kentucky Career Center – Lincoln Trail nearest you, or visit www.ltcareercenter.org to learn more about our no-cost services for job seekers.
Carter Dyson is One-Stop Director at Kentucky Career Center – Lincoln Trail, which is overseen by the Lincoln Trail Workforce Development Board. He can be reached at 270-766-5115 or carter.dyson@ky.gov.