The End-of-Year Career Review: 7 Steps for Wrapping Up Your Year and Setting Yourself Up for Success in the Next

As the end of the year approaches, it's a good time to reflect on your career progress and set some goals for the year ahead. Here are some pieces of end of the year career advice to help you get started:

1. Reflect on your accomplishments: Take some time to think about what you've achieved in your career this year. What are you most proud of? What skills have you developed or projects have you completed that you're proud of? By looking back at your accomplishments, you can get a better sense of your strengths and areas for growth.
2. Set some career goals: Now that you've reflected on your accomplishments, it's time to set some goals for the year ahead. These could be short-term goals (e.g., completing a specific project by a certain date) or long-term goals (e.g., advancing to a new job or role). Make sure your goals are specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART).
3. Create a development plan: In order to achieve your career goals, you'll need to have a plan for how to get there. This might include taking on new responsibilities at work, seeking out additional training or education, or networking with others in your field. Make a list of the steps you need to take and start working on them.
4. Network and build relationships: The end of the year is a great time to reconnect with people in your network and make new connections. Attend industry events, join professional groups, and reach out to former colleagues or mentors. Building relationships can help you stay informed about job opportunities and can also provide valuable support and guidance as you navigate your career
5. Update your resume and LinkedIn profile: Now is a good time to review and update your resume and LinkedIn profile to reflect your accomplishments and goals. Make sure you highlight any new skills or experiences you've gained, and consider adding any relevant certifications or education.
6. Seek feedback and support: Consider seeking feedback from your supervisor or colleagues about your performance this year. This can help you identify areas for improvement and give you a better understanding of how you're perceived in the workplace. You may also want to consider working with a career coach or mentor to help you develop a plan for achieving your career goals.
7. Stay positive and motivated: Finally, it's important to stay positive and motivated as you work towards your career goals. This might mean finding a mentor or accountability partner to help keep you on track, or finding ways to stay engaged and motivated in your work.

By following these tips, you can set yourself up for success in the year ahead and continue to grow and advance in your career. Here's to a happy and successful new year!