Resolutions for the workplace: Resolve to find or keep job

As we head into February, it is as good a time as any to start in on those workplace New Year's resolutions. What's that? Your resolutions were about eating better and being a better saver? Well, it is never too late to think about how to make 2012 a better year when it comes to the job.

This year could be a tipping point for the economy and the job market. Hiring was slow and steady in 2011, but it could accelerate in 2012. Conversely, the European economic crises, continued weakness in the housing market and government austerity measures could push us back into recession. Either way, you want to put yourself in the best position to take advantage of expansion or survive any dips.

For those resolving to find a new job in 2012, the constant barrage of lackluster employment news can make it seem like an impossible goal. It is not. The key to success is to take an active approach and make your own opportunities. A passive strategy of surfing Internet job boards and emailing résumés will be ineffective in this market.

There are several positive job-market indicators heading into the new year. Data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics show that, as of November, private-sector employers have experienced 21 consecutive months of net employment gains. Additionally, over the three-month period ending in October, employers hired an average of 4,083,000 new workers per month.

Employers are definitely turning their attention toward retention and recruiting. However, this does not mean that employees now on payrolls will start to feel like they have the upper hand.

While, companies are concerned about losing talented workers, they also know that the labor pool is full of willing and able candidates. So, if you have a job, your workplace resolutions should be focused on keeping it, as well as putting yourself in a position for a possible salary increase or promotion.

Those who want to keep or improve their positions in the new year are not going to do so by flying under the radar. It will take a more aggressive approach that goes beyond most people's comfort zones.

The other key to succeeding in your job-related resolutions is to set specific objectives and reasonable deadlines for achieving them. Instead of making it your goal to find a new job, focus on the smaller steps needed to get that job. For instance, resolve to join a professional association or find other ways to meet 10 new people in your field.

John A. Challenger is chief executive officer of Challenger, Gray & Christmas Inc. His breadth of knowledge on corporate practices, workplace issues, the economy, and societal trends is sought out by major broadcast and print media.