It's that time of the year again

Well 2012 is nearly finished and the New Year of 2013 will soon be upon us.The last few scraps of Christmas turkey are being consumed and the tinsel and the lights are looking a bit tired now. High streets and on-line e-commerce retail outlets are full of consumers scavenging for the best bargains in the sales.

For many people this time of the year is also a time to think about their job and their prospects. The British economy, dependant on who or what you read, is either showing some signs of recovery or is in for the proverbial double dip. And all this leads to unease for the job hunter. 

For those in employment, there's the question "Should I stay or should I go?". (Thanks here to The Clash) For those not in employment, there's the question, when will they say "Heigh Ho". (Thanks here to Disney and very topical don't you think. Don't get Grumpy). 

This time of the year is great for taking the time out and reviewing your options for your career. Read and revise your CV. Update your LinkedIn profile and commit to making contact with your connections. Consider how else you promote yourself on social media. Do you have a presence on Facebook? Do you indulge on Twitter?

All of this comes with a warning. Remember that once information is on-line about you, it can be seen by others - including potential new employers. So be careful and mindful about what is published by you and even about you. Your on-line presence can affect your job opportunities - so be aware of that playful moment in a drunken moment of madness at the Christmas party getting you a history you'd prefer not to have.

Nonetheless, use the new social media opportunities to their utmost. Get your name known widely for positive reasons by actively participating with your professional networks. Use your LinkedIn presence and build knowledge of potential employers and grow your connection list. Write a blog!!!! Use Twitter to get access to roles. Review the recruitment websites you use and invest time with recruiters directly - even be as bold as to massage their ego!!! (You know they love it!!!).

As for me, well I'm coming to the end of my current interim role shortly so will be looking for my next assignment, either permanent or interim. Already, I've secured a HR consultancy role (not full time) but will be looking to add to my portfolio. I'm aware that my background in both private and public sector organisations is highly valued and my strategic and operational competences add fantastic value to my employer and/or clients.

But it's always a difficult time when you have to get on that treadmill to find the job that'll help pay the bills, etc. and so I'll try to follow my own road map to a successful conclusion at an early point in 2013. I need to stay ahead of the game so although I've shared some tips with you, I'm already doing them and more. 

In closing, I'd just like to remind you that I'm happy to speak about any potential opportunities and look forward to working with you. My LinkedIn profile can be seen here and gives you a flavour of my capabilities and where I will add value to your business. Please, circulate this blog widely to your connections and, before I forget, HAPPY NEW YEAR (when it comes).

(c) Iain Williamson 2012