Year of the Sheep won’t be baaa-d!

It is the Year of the Sheep! In the Chinese zodiac, the Sheep is considered to have fantastic luck and is often very resilient. All around the world people celebrate Chinese New Year by gathering with friends and family to exchange messages of good luck and fortune such as love, happiness, health and prosperity. 

If your career NY resolutions have not yet brought much success, consider the Chinese New Year the perfect opportunity to step up your game. Drive away negative vibes and start afresh. Use these tips to embrace the Year of the Sheep and move your job hunt in the right direction!

Develop a good plan 

Before you (re) begin your search, take some time to map out a good plan. Use a list, note down some of the key things you want to get out of your search. Job searching is a job on its own. Use your time wisely. Only meet agencies that you feel are really going to help you. Develop a great CV, not a good CV. This is your marketing tool! Yes this means checking that the format, font, size etc. are all consistent. There is nothing worse for a potential employer than opening up a messy CV. Keep track of jobs that you apply for. Here is a massive hint – do not apply for the same job over and over again! The more thought you put into your plan, the easier it will be to execute.

Seek professional advice

Remember you’re not expected to be an expert at job seeking – that’s why there are recruitment consultancies like Biscuit! We are always happy to give tips, hints and advice. 

Charm your network

Use your connections! To bring better luck to your job search, reconnect with old friends and build on your relationships. Reach out to those in both your professional and personal networks. You never know when a friend of a friend could help you land your dream job. Focus on creating relationships, not just asking others for job opportunities.

Discover your power colour

We all know the job search can be a rollercoaster of emotions. Chinese NY is typically celebrated with decorations of red and gold, which are thought to bring prosperity and wealth, and frighten away the evil spirits. If your nerves are getting the better of you before an interview consider wearing a talisman. (I often do this when nervous!) This could be a piece of jewellery or a lucky charm that has meaning to you and will keep you calm in the moment. Find a power colour that makes you feel confident.

Finally stay positive!  A steady path, generosity and keeping the peace are this year’s mantra.