Want next year to be better than this one? Before the ball drops, do these things to prepare yourself for greater career success in 2022:
Take Inventory of Your Year
- Identify tasks you accomplished, skills you used, and goals you reached.
- Include soft skills developed because of the pandemic, such as resilience, adaptability, and communication.
- Make a strengths and weaknesses list.
Update Your Career Documents and Networks
- Use the information from your skills and experiences to update your resume and cover letter.
- Review your LinkedIn profile and social media accounts to make sure they reflect current information.
- Add all new contacts to your networks.
Maximize Remaining Time
- Was there a milestone you missed last year? Get it done before the new year.
- Did your skills review uncover an opportunity that would look great on your resume? Go after it.
- Dedicate time to learning a new professional skill in the new year. Start now.
Set Career Goals
- Write a one-line vision statement for your career.
- Make a list of goals for the year and create smaller milestones that will guide you to them.
- Resolve to revisit the goals and milestones weekly or monthly to stay on track.
Make It a Team Effort
- Create a personal board of directors of trusted friends to help guide your goal path.
- Avoid blind spots by asking these advisors for feedback on your personal skills assessments.
- Ask them if they see opportunities to improve your skills and marketability.
Communicate Your Vision
- Clearly communicate your career goals, especially to those who can help make them happen.
- Make an appointment with your manager to talk about your career path in the company.
- If you're working through a staffing firm, connect with your recruiter to share your updated vision for your career - and find out how they can help.
- Identify others who might be able to help you grow in your role and ask for advice.
Evaluate Your Current Position
- Prepare for your next salary review by researching your salary range and benefits.
- Decide whether you can attain your career goals within the organization or if you need to look for opportunities elsewhere.
- Identify development opportunities and pain points and make a plan to address them.
Send a Holiday Greeting
- Connect with your contacts and let them know you are thinking of them.
- If you're planning a job search, warm up potential targets with good wishes.
- Make it non-denominational, authentic, and celebratory.
Apply With a Staffing Firm
- Connect with experts that specialize in your work.
- Gain access to a network of great jobs.
- Explore interesting options for employment you haven't yet considered.