As the Australian summer kicks in and the Christmas holidays begin, it’s a natural time to wind down, recharge, and spend quality time with family and friends. But it’s also the perfect opportunity to get refresh, review and plan ahead if you’re considering your next career move in 2025.
Executive roles are competitive, and setting yourself apart starts long before the job market heats up in January. For the last couple of months, we have noticed an increase in applications for advertised senior leadership roles. The minute a role has been advertised in the corporate world you are competing against a candidate pool that can match exactly what the hiring manager is seeking – you are one of many. In the last couple of months our largest applicant pool was over 500. That’s 500+ people with the expectation that they can do the job! The size of candidate pool is great for our client and our executive recruiters but not good odds for the applicants.
If you are contemplating a new chapter in your career next year here’s a few tips!
Before embarking on any career preparation, take a moment to truly disconnect. Leadership roles inherently bring stress, and stepping into the new year with a refreshed mindset and clear focus can provide a substantial edge. Spend time doing what energises you—whether that’s being with loved ones, enjoying the outdoors, or reflecting on what you want out of life. Create the mental space to make the right decisions for your future.
Once you’ve had time to unwind, reflect on where you’re at in your career. What worked well for you in 2024? What challenges pushed you, and what could have gone better? Ask yourself: What kind of role or organisation excites you? Are you aligned with industries or missions you’re passionate about? What’s a non-negotiable for you—flexibility, leadership opportunities, or a particular company culture? Getting clarity on these questions will guide you when opportunities arise. Use this downtime to define the kind of role that aligns with your values, skills, and aspirations.
Once you’ve mapped out your goals, turn them into an actionable plan. Think of it as a roadmap for 2025. Start by researching companies you admire and want to work for. Look into their leadership teams, business challenges, and opportunities for growth. Make a list of key contacts you can connect with in the new year—whether it’s recruiters, mentors, or industry peers. Then, create templates for LinkedIn messages, cover letters and emails so you’re ready to hit the ground running. The job market moves fast after the holidays, so being prepared will save you valuable time and effort.
Your LinkedIn profile is often the first impression you make on decision-makers, so it’s essential it’s polished and up to date for the job you want. On LinkedIn, ensure your profile reflects your leadership brand. Craft an engaging summary, update your professional headshot, and include relevant keywords so recruiters can find you easily. Engage with your network by sharing articles or commenting on industry news. Next update your resume and ensure that you highlight quantifiable career achievements. Did you grow revenue? Lead a significant transformation? Develop a high-performing team? Put that front and centre.
Finally, take some time to refine how you talk about yourself and your career. Whether it’s a casual coffee meeting or a formal interview, you need to be able to articulate your unique value clearly and confidently. Your pitch should answer: Who you are professionally? What have you achieved? What makes you different? What are you looking for next? Practice it until it feels natural. A polished elevator pitch is an invaluable tool for networking and will help you standout in conversations.
The holiday season doesn’t have to be ‘all work and no play’ – it’s about finding balance. Use this time to recharge and reflect whilst laying the groundwork for a successful career move. A little preparation now can make all the difference for 2025. If you’re considering your next move and would like some help on your strategy how to position yourself for success DOWNLOAD a complimentary copy of “Uncover the Hidden Job Market – How to find and win your next executive role.”
Here’s to a restful holiday season and an exciting year ahead!
