Mid-Year Career Goal Setting
When you started this year, what did you hope this year would bring? Have you made progress toward your goals? Have your priorities changed? Maybe you've earned a promotion, taken on new responsibilities, started looking for a new job, or realized it's time for a change.
Whatever your situation, the mid-year mark is a great time to reflect on what's working, what isn't, and where you want to focus during the second half of the year. Here’s a few ideas:
Refresh Your Resume
Even if you're happy in your current role, don't wait until you need your resume to update it. Take a few minutes to:
Add accomplishments and projects from the first half of the year.
List your impact while the details and numbers are still fresh.
Remove outdated information (Do you really need to list that position from 15 years ago?)
Update your LinkedIn profile to reflect your latest experience and skills.
Your future self will thank you.
If You're Job Searching
The mid-year mark can actually be a productive time to search. While you might assume hiring slows down after the first half of the year, the reality is that hiring still happens. Many organizations hire actively all year. Regardless of how long you’ve been searching, now isn’t the time to give up. Keep your momentum going.
Tailor your resume for each opportunity.
Continue applying consistently rather than as the mood hits.
Practice interviewing so you're ready when opportunities arise.
Follow companies you're interested in and keep an eye on new openings.
Connect with Your Network
Networking doesn't have to mean attending large conferences or collecting business cards.
Reach out to a former colleague.
Schedule a coffee chat.
Find a new, outdoor venue for a professional event or networking lunch.
Comment thoughtfully on LinkedIn.
Small, consistent efforts often lead to the biggest opportunities.
Looking Ahead
The second half of the year offers 6 more months of opportunities to make progress on your career goals. Whether you're preparing for a promotion, considering a career change, or simply wanting to be ready when the right opportunity comes along, investing a little time now can make a big difference later! Sometimes the best investment you can make is simply staying career-ready.
Here's to a successful second half of year! What career goal are you working toward before the end of the year?
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If updating your resume, refreshing your LinkedIn profile, or creating a focused job search strategy has been on your to-do list, you don’t have to do it alone. Iwork with job seekers to feel prepared, remain confident and take charge of their job search. If you could use a partner in your next steps, let’s talk!
