Career Goal Ideas for Job Seekers in the New Year

January symbolizes new beginnings, fresh starts, and a time to reflect on the year ahead.

People often set personal goals—such as eating healthier, getting more sleep, following a consistent workout routine, reading more, or practicing gratitude. But what about your career goals? Whether you’re considering a career change or simply want to strengthen your work ethic and skills in your current role, here are a few tips to help guide your reflection for 2021.

1. Figure out what you want to accomplish.

• If you’re thinking about changing careers, start by identifying what you want—and don’t want—from a job. Consider questions like:

• What type of environment do I want to work in?

• What do I value in team members?

• Are company values important to me?

• What are my salary expectations?

If you’re looking to grow in your current career, you could:

• Take an online course to build a specific skill.

• Attend virtual educational webinars or speaker sessions.

• Ask if you can take on additional responsibilities at work.

2. Keep your portfolio updated.

It’s always a good idea to keep your cover letter, résumé, and LinkedIn profile up to date. Just like maintaining your car with regular oil changes, keeping your professional materials current helps you stay organized and prepared. Include certifications, training programs, volunteer experience, board participation, and other accomplishments. If you’re considering a career change, you never know which skills or experiences might catch a hiring manager’s attention—even if they seem unrelated.

3. Make new connections.

Don’t hesitate to reach out to people on LinkedIn. If you’re exploring a new industry, speaking directly with someone in that field can give you valuable insight. Try setting up a video or phone call to learn more. If you want to deepen your knowledge in your current industry, connect with other professionals and ask for recommendations on training programs, reading materials, or industry‑related websites.

4. Do your own research.

Research is another great way to learn about an industry—especially if you’re considering a career change. Look into questions such as:

• What will this job look like in 5, 10, or 15 years?

• What type of personality thrives in this field?

• Will I need additional training?

• What are the current trends or challenges in the industry?

If you’re staying in your current career, staying informed about industry developments will give you an extra edge at work.

References:

Forbes

CNBC

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