With the start of a new year, thousands will make finding a new job one of their resolutions. If this is going to be on your resolution list or you’re already on the job hunt, the competition is going to be fierce. There are steps you can take now to prepare.

It’s easy to say you’re going to change jobs, or even careers, but it takes dedication, perseverance and a teaspoon or two of savvy to — no pun intended — get the job done. A number of job seekers will have their mind set on a specific position or title they wish to obtain.

Before you begin your search, start by looking at your skill set and what type of role will bring you the most professional satisfaction. Of course money is a big motivator, but it shouldn’t be the top priority or sole factor. Getting paid big bucks to work 8-10 hours a day in a job you loathe just isn’t worth it.

By looking at what you’re capable of doing and identifying what you’re passionate about, this will open up more career opportunities than being pigeon-holed into two or three titles. If moving to a position that is more professionally rewarding than financially rewarding, ask yourself this question: Are you prepared to take a smaller compensation package?

Once you’ve identified the above, it’s time to get serious. Do some research and make a list of organizations that have cultures that match what you’re looking for. Even if they don’t have any positions currently open, submit your resume and emphasize what you have to offer as a future employee. In a recent webinar given by NAS Recruitment, it was mentioned how a number of career sites for organizations are evolving and becoming more community-site oriented so they can build up a talent network to stay in touch with interested candidates. 

In addition, cover the basics: keep your resume current, use niche job boards to search for jobs, upload your resume plus sign up for job alerts and the board’s e-newsletter (if one is available). Also, expand upon your existing network, keep track of where you’ve applied and follow up.

By getting a jump on the open season for job hunting, you’re positioning yourself above the competition.

E.J. Fechenda is the Audience Data Manager for MedTech Media. Since 2008 she has helped manage Healthcare Finance JobSpot and Healthcare IT JobSpot - now merged with HIMSS JobMine. She is not a Human Resources professional, nor a healthcare expert, but over the years she's accumulated a lot of feedback and insight from both job seekers and employers alike. Each week E.J. will deliver a blog based on this information. One week will be employer focused and the next week, job seeker focused.