Recruiters reveal the 6 things smart workers and jobseekers do over Christmas

Four career experts share what proactive workers should be doing right now to maximise the summer break.

Workers and jobseekers who find themselves with some down time over the summer can put it to good use and set their career on track.

Four career experts – Stillwell Management Consultants head of organisational psychology consulting Alexandra Rosser, Hays director Lisa Morris, Sullivan Consulting managing director Andrew Sullivan and Entree Recruitment general manager Megan Nicholson – share the best items to add to your December careers checklist:

1 LOOK BACK AND LOOK AHEAD

“The Christmas period is a perfect time to review your career to date and ensure you are comfortable with the reality of your current position,” Morris says.

“Look back over your career goals – or create actionable career goals if you haven’t already done so – and list what you must accomplish to take the next step in your career.”

Rosser recommends putting a day aside for personal strategic planning.

“Review past achievements, generate your personal vision, mission and values and identify your goals for the year and the steps to realise them,” she says.

“(This) should also involve updating your social media profiles, CV and other representations of you at work.”

Alexandra Rosser says to decompress, declutter then design your new year. Picture: Mike Burton.

2 UPSKILL

If you want to give yourself a head start on next year, Sullivan says the holiday period can be a great time to upskill.

“Especially if you find that you usually don’t have the time to do so during the year,” he says.

Nicholson agrees, saying it does not need to be a formal qualification.

“You can undertake a short course to learn a new skill or undertake some online programs to upskill or refresh your current skills,” she says.

Andrew Sullivan recommends getting a head start on 2022 by learning a new skill. Picture: Supplied

3 SORT OUT YOUR PERSONAL LIFE

The line between personal and professional time has never been so blurred, so getting one under control will no doubt help the other.

“You can get yourself organised at home, which will help with balancing your work and home commitments,” Nicholson says.

Rosser recommends decluttering your online and physical workspace by sorting files, emails, desk and drawers.

Organising your home now will help you manage your time next year, says Megan Nicholson. Picture: Jo-Anna Robinson

4 WORK YOUR NETWORK

Morris advises that now may also be a good time to join a professional association, find some networking opportunities or refresh your online professional profile – such as on LinkedIn.

5 UPDATE YOUR RESUME

“If you intend to look for a new job in the new year, use this time to review and update your resume,” Morris says.

“Make sure you quantify your previous achievements since employers today want proof that you achieve success in your current job.”

Now is a good time to refresh your CV, according to Lisa Morris. Picture: Supplied

6 CHILL OUT

You don’t need to be filling every hour to make your break useful, according to Sullivan.

“For many, 2021 has been an eventful year, so it’s important to take some time out to spend with family, friends, and doing the things you love so you can enter 2022 feeling refreshed,” he says.

Rosser recommends using the break to decompress.

“Decompress by taking some time off work to get some sleep and work on your physical, mental and emotional wellbeing,” she says.

Originally published as Recruiters reveal the 6 things smart workers and jobseekers do over Christmas