Northlanders usually wait until January to set new career goals, but we encourage our employers to act early and October is actually the smartest time to prepare. Employers are beginning to plan their staffing needs for the year ahead, which means that roles often open up sooner than you might expect. By using this time wisely, you’ll put yourself in a strong position to take advantage of opportunities as soon as they arise.
Future-proof your career and step into 2026 with confidence!
Review Your Skills
Take a step back and look at what you’ve achieved this year. Which projects or responsibilities are you most proud of? Have you picked up new technical skills, leadership experience, or problem-solving abilities? Make note of any gaps too, whether it’s a certification you’ve been putting off or a soft skill like communication or time management. Recognising both your strengths and areas for growth will help you plan your next move strategically.
Update Your CV & LinkedIn
Many people only update their CV when they’re actively job hunting, but it’s much easier, and smarter, to keep it fresh as you go. Add your 2025 achievements, responsibilities, and results now, while they’re still top of mind. The same goes for your LinkedIn profile, employers and recruiters often look there first. A polished, up-to-date profile tells the world you’re proactive and serious about your career.
Reconnect with Your Network
Your professional network is one of your most valuable career tools. October is a great time to send a quick message to former colleagues, attend a local networking event, or even post an update on LinkedIn. These small actions keep you visible and can lead to conversations that uncover opportunities you might not see advertised.
Set Career Goals for 2026
Think about where you’d like to be this time next year. Do you want to take on more responsibility in your current role, move into a leadership position, or explore a new industry altogether? Setting clear goals gives you focus and motivation. Write them down and break them into steps so they feel achievable.
Talk to Us
Having a confidential chat now can give you a head start on roles that might never even make it to the job boards. At Dynamic Personnel, we specialise in the Northland market and can provide honest, personalised advice to help you plan your next move.
The takeaway
Don’t wait for January to make a fresh start. By putting in the work now, updating your CV, reconnecting with people, and setting clear goals, you’ll be ready to move quickly when the right role comes along. And when that happens, you’ll be ahead of the crowd.