Regardless of your career situation, the new year offers you a clean slate. If you're a goal-driven person, then you probably set performance targets for yourself at work and in your personal life. Now that the new year is here, it's time to set your career goals for the next 12 months.
Remember to keep your goals SMART (specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound).
What To Consider As You Set Your Career Goals For The New Year
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Relationships
Armed with a list of the most critical relationships in your work life, set a goal for each. What's the one action you can take that will sustain or improve each relationship? Think about how you can enhance communication, build trust, or provide value to each person on your list. Could you schedule regular check-ins, share helpful resources, or show appreciation for their support? Relationships are the foundation of your professional network, so fostering them will often open doors to new opportunities.
Past Goals
Are you carrying forward any of last year's goals into this year? If so, make a note of them. Reflect on what progress you made last year and why these goals are still relevant. In addition, jot down the primary goals you would like to achieve in your career this year. Are you aiming to land a new job or a promotion by a certain date? Or are you planning to clarify your career next steps or explore a new industry? Taking stock of both past and new goals helps you create a roadmap for success, ensuring you build on previous efforts while staying focused on your evolving aspirations.
Career Trajectory
What title, employer type, and industry would you like to be in by the end of this year? Aim high and dream big, and then work backward to detail the path you will need to take to achieve this trajectory. Consider the skills, experiences, and connections you’ll need to gain along the way. For example, will you need to take on a leadership role, build expertise in a niche area, or expand your professional network in a specific industry? Breaking your ultimate goal into smaller, actionable steps will make it feel more achievable and keep you motivated.
Personal Brand
Which elements of your personal brand would you like to refine and capitalize on more this year? How will you do this? What types of projects, assignments, and roles will enable you to develop your personal brand at work? Additionally, think about how you present yourself online and offline. Could you enhance your LinkedIn profile, share thought leadership content, or participate in industry events? A strong personal brand sets you apart and helps others see the unique value you bring to your work.
Career Values
What are the top three career values you would like to honor most throughout this next year? These might include flexibility, professional growth, creativity, financial stability, or making a positive impact. Reflect on how your current role aligns with these values and what changes you might need to make. Prioritizing your values ensures that your career decisions are both fulfilling and aligned with your long-term goals.
Career Passions
What are the top three career passions you would like to express throughout the coming year? Whether it’s mentoring others, solving complex problems, or driving innovation, make sure your goals incorporate these passions. Look for ways to weave them into your day-to-day responsibilities or pursue projects that allow you to explore them further. Aligning your work with your passions can significantly boost your job satisfaction and motivation.
Career Gifts/Talents
What are the top two career gifts or talents you would like to use this year? Consider the unique skills and abilities that set you apart, whether it’s strategic thinking, exceptional communication, or creative problem-solving. Think about how you can apply these talents to advance your career while also benefiting your team or organization. Sharing your gifts can position you as an invaluable resource and create opportunities for growth.
Industry Trends
Which industry trends are most likely to impact your career in the coming year? What specific actions can you take in the next 12 months to make those impacts as positive as possible? What can you do to mitigate any potential negative impacts? Stay informed by reading industry news, attending webinars, or joining professional associations. Being proactive about adapting to changes—whether it’s mastering new technologies or shifting to in-demand roles—can help you stay ahead of the curve.
Personal and Professional Development
What new personal or work-related skills do you plan to develop this year? What formal or informal training will you complete? Remember that once you officially enroll in a class or program, you can add it to your resume and LinkedIn profile—just make sure you clarify that you are enrolled and have not yet completed it. Once you've completed the class or program, you can note this completion on your resume or LinkedIn profile as well. Consider choosing skills that align with your career goals, whether it’s technical expertise, leadership training, or language proficiency.
Achievements
What achievement opportunities exist for you in your current role this year? Are there projects or initiatives that you think will enable you to solve a problem, improve sales, innovate, or help the company achieve shared goals? Identify areas where you can make a measurable, quantifiable impact and set clear objectives for what success looks like. Documenting and communicating these achievements will not only bolster your performance reviews but also enhance your resume and personal brand for future opportunities.
Achieving Your Career Goals
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Once your plan is crafted, put legs under it by tying your goals and plans to specific dates in your planner. Break larger annual goals into small weekly chunks and make sure you access support for each goal you set.
- Who can assist you in achieving each goal? Identify mentors, colleagues, or friends who can provide guidance, accountability, or encouragement.
- What information or resources do you need to pursue these goals? Research books, courses, or tools that can bridge knowledge gaps and empower your progress.
- What new skills or success habits must you put in place to realize these goals? Dedicate time to personal development, whether through online training, workshops, or consistent practice of new habits.
- What changes or adaptations will you have to make, and how will you go about executing those? Consider what routines or mindsets need to shift and create a realistic action plan to integrate those changes.
- What barriers to accomplishing these goals are in your way or could arise? How will you overcome these barriers? Acknowledge potential obstacles and strategize actionable solutions, such as building a network, seeking professional advice, or improving time management.
Put your career plan in a form that feels right to you. Store it where you will see it often (preferably daily) and schedule monthly reviews of your plan. Each month when you reread it, make a note of your progress, successes, and problems. Celebrate milestones, no matter how small. Get help when you need it—don't wait until the year is nearly over to admit that you need support to achieve a goal. Most of all, have fun with your goals. Resolutions are supposed to bring us joy!
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