Changing careers is not an easy task.
Even the most focused individuals can get off track at points in their transition.
But, wouldn't it be great if you had a surefire way to snap out of the fear of the unknown and self-doubt that you are making the right move?
Well you can.
It just takes a little self reflection and research.
The last quarter of the year is around the time that I really push my clients to review their career progress and future goals.
Why?
Business hits hard in the first quarter of the year, if you are working you know that everyone is busy busy busy.
By the end of the year, you guessed it, as people prepare for the holidays things slow down.
By the end of the year, you guessed it, as people prepare for the holidays things slow down.
You can finally breathe and schedule some serious you time for career planning before the holiday vacation rush and jumping back into the fast lane of life in January.
Refocusing on your career goals and progress in achieving them, is in my opinion the best thing you can do in active and passive job searches.
- It helps you determine what is working and what is not
- Helps you keep tabs on missed opportunities (So you can be better prepared next time)
- Helps you to capitalize on networking opportunities
- And who wouldn't be motivated by seeing progress ;)
Here are some questions to consider when doing your
"Year End" Career Review....
- What are your current OVERALL and SPECIFIC career goals? (These things change as your life situation changes so it is always good to continually reflect on this.
- What specific ACTIONS have you accomplished so far in the year toward your overall and specific career goals?
- Are you up to date on your desired industry news? Do you know what the industry leaders are saying and doing to advance your field? What is trending right now? (Hint* LinkedIn is a great way to stay connected with this)
- Are you using the tools that are available to you to make tracking progress easy? (Feedly, Evernote, LinkedIn, etc. )
- What lessons did you learn from October of last year - October this year? Things that went well? Opportunities missed? (Think back especially to last holiday season and reflect on networking opportunities)
Don't miss out on setting yourself up for a great new year!
How do you keep track of your career change and job search progress? Leave your best tips below!