The New Year brings the traditional pressure to make sweeping resolutions. But when it comes to your career, you don’t need a total life overhaul – you need simple, actionable, and sustainable steps.
For graduates and students aiming to secure a meaningful role in 2026, the focus should be on practical preparation. Here are five realistic career resolutions to help you land your next suitable placement or job.
Resolution 1: Stop Job Searching – Start Skill Mapping
In the modern market, employers are looking past your degree title and straight at your demonstrable skills. This year, stop simply listing module names and start translating your academic or society experience into professional capabilities (like analytical thinking, resilience, or project management).
- The Action: Take 30 minutes to review your course requirements, part-time jobs, and extracurriculars. Identify three real-world examples of when you solved a problem or managed a deadline.
Need help translating? See our guide: CV Hints and Tips.
Resolution 2: Audit Your Digital Footprint
Your online presence is often the first thing a recruiter checks. This resolution is about integrity and consistency across all channels.
- The Action: Make sure your CV, LinkedIn profile, and any portfolio links match perfectly. Update your LinkedIn summary to reflect your current goals and demonstrate your professional engagement. Delete any old social media posts that don’t reflect your current professional ambition.
Don’t forget the basics: Make sure your professional profile is sharp with our help: LinkedIn Profile Hints and Tips.
Resolution 3: Master the “How,” Not Just the “What”
You know what you’ve done, but can you clearly articulate how you did it? This is the core difference between a good and a great interview performance. Companies use structured interview techniques to assess your actual behaviour and impact, not just your story.
- The Action: Practise answering questions using the STAR technique (Situation, Task, Action, Result). Prepare three solid answers that showcase problem-solving, teamwork, and leadership.
Get Ready: Prepare for the big day by reviewing: Interview Tips – STAR Technique.
Resolution 4: Be Proactive About Experience
The best way to stand out is with relevant experience. If you haven’t secured a placement yet, don’t wait for the perfect one to appear. This year, resolve to be proactive in finding ways to fill those practical skills gaps.
- The Action: Focus on short-term commitments. This could be volunteering for a charity, signing up for a relevant free online course (like Google Analytics), or asking a professional contact for a mentorship meeting. Every step builds your experience profile.
Need a head start? Read about the benefits of work experience: Undergraduates – The Benefits of Work Experience.
Resolution 5: Put Preparation Before Pressure
The job search can be intense. The most effective resolution you can make is to treat your preparation seriously, so you don’t feel overwhelmed by the pressure. By setting aside specific, scheduled time for job prep (e.g., one hour every Monday evening), you keep the momentum going without burning out.
- The Action: Schedule time to address the practical tests often used by recruiters. Even if you’re not applying yet, familiarise yourself with the formats.
Know what to expect: Get ahead of the game with our guide: Psychometric Tests Hints and Tips.
Ready to Go? Your Next Step
Taking care of the details, from crafting effective interview answers to maintaining secure digital profiles, is what makes the difference. This preparation ensures that when the perfect opportunity lands, your application is sharp and ready to shine.
Ready to put your preparation to the test?
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