11 Tips for Taking Charge of Your Career in 2011

In 2010, I helped a lot of talented people land good jobs after their company let them go. I am often asked by companies to meet with the employees just moments after they have been told their job has been eliminated. I support them through a variety of reactions – anger, grief and fear. It is really a tough time for them.

Recently I met with Jennifer, an MBA, who was let go after 18 years with a global management consulting firm. Over a cup of coffee, Jennifer told me her story. She had worked 12 hour days and traveled internationally for the last seven years. Although she missed many of her kids' games and concerts, Jennifer brought in new clients and increased revenues year over year. She had always received excellent evaluations from her managers. After she was terminated, Jennifer realized that she had been so busy managing her firm's business that she forgot to manage her own.

Jennifer is not alone.

For you, Jennifer, and for all of you who have put your own career management on the back burner, these are your New Year's Resolutions for 2011.

I resolve…

• To refrain from complaining about work or my job search; nobody thinks more highly of me when I whine.
• To discover my unique value proposition and convey it courageously and consistently. I will buy "Career Distinction" by Arruda and Dixson if I need help in this area.
• To update my resume with new metrically-based accomplishments from 2010. I know that having an updated resume at all times is a must.
• To participate in professional networking events every quarter. I will welcome, meet and introduce people as if I were the host at a party.
• To build or enhance my LinkedIn profile, stoking it with key words and recommendations
• To enlarge my network – five new people every month.
• To stay in touch with my existing network – reaching out to five colleagues and friends every month.
• To expand my professional reading in 2011 – I will read more and read from a more diverse group of authors.
• To write a career plan with one, three and five-year goals and specific action plans to achieve them. I will not wait for the company to create a path for me because this is career suicide.
• To work my career plan and never put myself on the back burner again.
• To choose my attitude daily. I will choose purposefulness, a bias for action, optimism and enthusiasm knowing these attitudes are contagious and magnetic.

I wish you all career success in 2011 and beyond.

See it. Own it. Do it. Love it.

Your neighbor and career coach,

Christy