Now that a new decade has arrived, it's time to get ready for any career opportunities that may be headed your way.  Even if you aren't anticipating a job search, the start of a new year can help you dust off your documents, update your online presence, and increase your chances to expand your network.  So if you haven't already taken the time to do this - here are the three things to do now:

1.       Dig out your career documents and update them... Find your most recent resume and cover letter and make sure all the dates are correct, the content is accurate, and new information is added.  Don't forget to remove outdated things too - expired licensure or certifications, professional groups you don't participate in anymore, volunteering your haven't done for years, etc.  If you keep a ‘brag book', double check that you have added all of your 2019 documents so it's ready to go when you need it.  This is also the perfect time to start writing down information for a thorough and positive performance discussion with your boss.

2.       Check your online presence... When did you update your profile pictures on LinkedIn, Facebook, and any other career relevant platforms?  Review your profile information to make it current with organizations, your work experience, volunteering, training, technical skills, language skills, and any licensing or certifications you secured in 2019. 

3.       Plan your 2020 networking activities... Even if you have 500+ Connections in LinkedIn, you should have an annual plan on how you want to increase or modify your network.  This could include professional affiliations to join, specific groups you follow on Facebook or LinkedIn, continuing education activities you attend, or internal cross-training you ask to participate in.  The key is making a plan with multiple steps and options so if one doesn't meet your goal you can select something different to build your network in the new decade.