Okay, so we actually still have a few more weeks of summer left… But, it certainly feels like things are winding down. Kids are back in school, summer Fridays are over, and vacations are wrapping up.
If you’re feeling those post-summer blues coming on, we’re here to remind you that it’s a great time to think about how you can keep your career fresh and an extra boost this fall.
Spend some time on the Oomple marketplace.
Fall is a great time to spend some quality time with the platform –Update your profile, add recent accomplishments, and make sure your profile is complete and appealing to everyone in the platform such as agencies and clients.
If you’re actively thinking about a new contract or job, make sure your profile is inviting, informative, and speaks to the kind of persona change you’re trying to make. If you’re hoping to set yourself up for a promotion, you might update your skills section and maybe even ask for a new recommendation or two.
Reflect on your career journey.
Taking time to think about what else you want to learn or other skills you want to develop next will come in handy when your manager asks you how you want to grow over the next year.
Fall is a great time to be outside, and if you’re someone who thinks well while doing a physical activity, you might consider going for a “career reflection hike” or “professional reflection bike ride” in nature to let your mind wander and think about what’s next.
Develop a career portfolio.
Whether you’re about to make the case for why you deserve a contract extension with a raise or are going after a new job, you need to have examples of accomplishments, project successes. To do this, have answers to behavioural questions polished and ready to go.
- Why do you think you deserve this raise or promotion?
- Where do you see yourself in five years?
- What project experience do you have that you have learned and grown from?
- Tell us about a time you didn’t hit your goals or failed in a project.
Prepare yourself digitally
New season calls for getting organized. Clean out your email, and create electronic files to organize job opportunities, resumes and cover letters.
On a modern note, most hiring is initiated through social media and digital recruiting dedicated so a big part of preparation is updating and professionalizing your online presence.
Polish your appearance
The end of summer means the end of the relaxed dress code. Back to school shopping could also mean time to treat yourself to a new wardrobe as well. Research states that it is a common fact that professional attire has a direct correlation to self-confidence.
For more tips on how to make the most of your consultant/ professional freelance life, or if you’re looking for advice about how to find a role you’ll love, check out https://www.oomple.com/freelancers to help you find better.