The impacts (and dramas) of COVID-19 have no doubt seeped into many of our lives. It’s understandably been difficult for some to consider planning for the future, personally and/or professionally. Yet as I’ve touched on in earlier blogs, there still appear to be opportunities within the Australian job market (and beyond) despite lockdowns, shutdowns and other COVID-related ‘downs’. With the Australian Bureau of Statistics reporting slight employment increases in July 2021, there still appear to be opportunities to boost and broaden your career prospects. So perhaps it’s time to rehash, re-review and/or reconsider your career goals for 2021 (and beyond).
“You are never too old to set another goal or to dream a new dream.” (C.S. Lewis)
Keep on learning & developing
Maybe there’s a training course that’s been on your bucket list for some time, or another career option you’ve contemplated kick-starting. Forced (or unforced) career breaks are often the ideal time to nourish and replenish yourself physically and mentally, including from a professional perspective. Whether you’re undertaking studies (or participating in networking groups) for pleasure or to expand your career scope, it can only be of benefit to continue learning and developing. I know it’s taken me on unexpected career journeys, including down the pathway to my current profession as a resume writer.
Be willing to volunteer & mentor
In addition to the ‘feel good’ endorphins associated with community-based work, volunteering and providing free-of-charge support/advice can also be beneficial to your career. You may have professional knowledge and experience that others would love to ‘tap into’ as a mentee or fellow networker. And the hard and soft skills often attained and/or enriched from such experiences are likely to deepen your professional offerings, and to strengthen your ability to showcase possession of the core transferrable skills relevant to most positions (i.e. communications, teamwork, customer service, project management and regulatory compliance).
Continue to reflect & renew
By keeping your resume and other career documentation up-to-date and relevant, you will not only be ready for unexpected career opportunities, but you will be continually reflecting on and acknowledging all that you have done. As I’ve experienced when conducting data collection sessions with some resume writing clients, it’s easy to forget or even under-estimate what you’ve contributed and/or achieved professionally. Keep pace with your career stages and advancements, perhaps through a professional resume writing partnership, to feel both confident and prepared.
_________________________________________
If you’ve been considering a change in career direction and/or increasing your career opportunities, it may also be time to consult a professional resume writer. From spicing up a LinkedIn profile to overhauling a resume and adding an often-critical cover letter, to writing up selection criteria attuned responses, Walton’s Words thrives on creating career documentation that helps you to stand out. Give us a call or drop us a line if you would like to discuss your resume writing needs further.
