We’ve all said it before: new year, new me. But while some new year’s resolutions are pretty small changes (no more Sunday night boozing? Easy.), going all-out and getting a new job is a much bigger deal. But it can be done!

The International Authority for Professional Coaching & Mentoring (web) is the leading accreditation authority for professional coaches. They know that getting a career change right requires smart planning and determination. Here, their director, Dawn Ann Campbell, offers you 5 top tips to getting your job search off to the right start:

  1. Give yourself the gift of time – the holiday break gives you at least a few empty days we always complain about not having. So use them, and use them meaningfully – do what you really want to do rather than continually saying what you “should” do, and it’ll help you tap into your passion.
  2. Put it in writing – get out of your head and start to get things on paper. Write down your ideal job profile, making sure it reflects your strengths, passion, creative spirit and sense of purpose. This will help clear your thoughts and maximise your job satisfaction.
  3. Dust off your CV – this couldn’t be more important. Bring it up to date, do some research on how to make it read and look its best, and ask your trusted family and friends to read it over. They might catch some obvious mistakes you’ve missed.
  4. Be your best self – if your CV looks great on paper but you aren’t in great shape yourself, you’ll end up feeling awkward when you get out there in January. So, look after your mental and physical health, and make sure what you say about yourself truly matches who you are.
  5. Get help wherever you can – there’s no reason not to go to the professionals. Hit the ground running in January by visiting relevant employment agencies. They’ll help you make sure you’ve covered your bases and can really turbocharge your job search from the get-go.
  6. Consider volunteering – doing good for others isn’t just highly rewarding and fulfilling; it’s a valuable test of your character, and one that employers will pay attention to. Volunteering is also a great way to meet like-minded individuals who may be helpful connections to have down the road.