The year is starting off on a pessimistic tone with grim projections for an uncertain economy, continued layoffs and a sluggish labor market. It’s natural to feel despair when you hear such bad news. Perhaps you want to escape reality by burying yourself in social media.
Instead of mindlessly scrolling, why not start off your year with a plan for taking charge of your career development? I have nine recommendations you can do to start your work year on a strong note. Steps one through seven apply to everyone regardless of career stage. Steps eight and nine apply to those who have had at least one job.
Step 1:
Ask yourself: What is the next job I would like to see in my resume and when do I want to have this title? This self-reflection is important in helping you chart your course for the next year.
Step 2:
Once you have determined your next career goal is, take a look at five job postings for the job title you aspire to. Take careful notes on what skills are commonly asked for in these postings that you currently lack.
Step 3:
Do five or more informational interviews with people who are working in the jobs you are aspiring to be in. Ask for advice on how to get there, what the trends are and what critical skills and certifications are needed. You particularly want to ask about in-demand future skills.
Step 4:
Use the information from steps 2 and 3 to make a plan for getting experience or education in the skills you lack. There are many options for continuing education such as community college, online learning and education benefits offered by your employer.
However, some employers offer free training to upgrade your skills. You might also be able to get on-the-job experience by volunteering to take on additional assignments.
Step 5:
Remember the thick packet of information given to you when you first started your job? Chances are you never had the time to look in-depth at the benefits your company offers. Make 2026 the year where you actually take advantage of the free benefits offered by your employer. Many of these can be of help in supporting your career. See what courses or benefits they offer, such as yoga classes, free therapy, communication skills training and continuing education.
Step 6:
Network. Most people are aware of the importance of networking, but few actually bother to be methodical about their networking efforts. Make this the year when you change all that. Perhaps you can start by reaching out via LinkedIn to people working in the job title you aspire to have from step 1. Or perhaps you can attend an industry conference.
Step 7:
Find a mentor. One of the biggest differences between those who succeed professionally and those who flounder is the support of a mentor. Check out mentoring programs in your industry, professional association or your company.
Step 8:
Schedule a time with your boss about what you would like to achieve in 2026. This conversation requires advance preparation. If you did steps 1 through 3, you would be well prepared for this conversation.
Step 9:
Start a weekly habit of noting your accomplishments and praises you received. This file folder of your accomplishments will be critical when it comes to evaluations as well as when you are applying for your next job. Few people bother to do this, but it’s well worth the effort.
Regardless of what the job market reports say, what matters is what YOU do to take charge of your career. These steps will help strengthen your skillset and provide career clarity. Happy 2026, everyone!
Anne Chan is a career consultant and licensed California psychotherapist. You can reach her at an*********@***il.com © Anne Chan, 2026
