Why the Holidays Are a Smart Time to Plan Your Career Change
The holiday season isn’t just for relaxing and reconnecting. For many professionals, it's also the perfect time to reflect, reassess, and reset. If you're considering a career change, this quieter period offers a unique opportunity to prepare yourself without workplace distractions.
Planning a career change over the holidays gives you a head start. With strategic thinking and focused steps, you can enter the new year ready to pursue new job opportunities with confidence.
Start by Clarifying Your Career Goals
Before making any big moves, take time to get crystal clear on what you want. Use this chance to understand your motivations and long-term goals. A successful career transition begins with focused self-reflection and intention.
Ask yourself key questions like:
- What type of work gives me energy and a sense of purpose?
- What are my transferable skills, strengths, and interests?
- Am I looking for a completely new field or a pivot within my industry?
- What type of work-life balance do I want?
Setting specific and realistic goals will guide your entire career change process. It ensures your decisions align with what you truly want.
Update Your Resume and LinkedIn Profile
Polishing your resume and LinkedIn profile is essential for any career move. Tailor your materials to highlight your most valuable skills and experiences for your target industry.
Tips to make your resume stand out:
- Use keywords specific to your desired role and industry
- Quantify achievements where possible (e.g., “increased sales by 20%”)
- Focus on results and transferable skills relevant to your new path
Your LinkedIn profile is just as critical. Hiring managers and recruiters often search for candidates online. Make sure your profile headline and summary reflect your new career direction.
Research Your Ideal Role or Industry
Knowledge reduces uncertainty. Now is the time to gather information about the roles, companies, and industries that interest you. This prepares you to make informed choices and speak confidently in interviews.
Ways to research potential careers during the holidays:
- Read job descriptions to find common requirements and trends
- Follow industry leaders and company pages on LinkedIn
- Listen to career-related podcasts or webinars
- Join online communities or forums in your target field
Becoming familiar with industry language and challenges helps you identify how your background aligns with your new goals.
Tap Into Your Network Strategically
Networking is one of the most effective tools for changing careers. The holiday season provides natural opportunities to reconnect and ask for guidance.
Here’s how to approach networking during this period:
- Reach out to former colleagues and mentors with a holiday greeting and an update
- Request informational interviews with people working in your desired field
- Use holiday events to grow and strengthen professional connections
- Join virtual networking groups relevant to your target industry
Let people know you’re exploring a new career direction. Most are happy to help or put you in touch with someone they know.
Strengthen Your Skills with Targeted Learning
If you're moving to a different field or role, you may need to close some skill gaps. Use the holiday downtime to invest in quick learning opportunities.
Options to build your credentials include:
- Online courses on platforms like Coursera, Udemy, or Skillshare
- Certifications that are recognized in your target industry
- Reading books or articles specific to the field you want to enter
Micro-learning during the holidays can significantly boost your confidence and readiness for your career change.
Set an Action Plan for the New Year
Once you’ve done your research and preparation, create a simple plan to follow in the new year. Set clear, achievable milestones to keep you focused and motivated.
Consider including goals like:
- Apply to a certain number of jobs each week
- Attend one virtual networking event per month
- Update your cover letter for each application
- Track your progress in a job search journal or spreadsheet
A structured plan helps you stay committed and avoid overwhelm during your career journey.
How Do I Know If It’s the Right Time to Change Careers?
If you're feeling unfulfilled, stagnant, or disconnected from your work, those could be signs it's time for a change. You may also notice:
- Lack of enthusiasm on Sunday nights or Monday mornings
- Desire to find more meaningful or enjoyable work
- Repeated thoughts about doing something else
The holidays allow you to pause and evaluate your path. Trust your instincts and explore possibilities thoughtfully.
Can I Change Careers Without Starting Over?
Yes, especially if you focus on transferable skills. Many soft skills—like communication, leadership, and problem-solving—apply across industries. Reframe your past experience in a way that supports your new goals.
Use keywords that reflect the language of your target career. Tailor your resume to bridge your background with your desired role.
Frequently Asked Questions About Making a Career Change
What are the first steps to successfully changing careers?
Clarify your goals, research the industry, update your resume and LinkedIn, network strategically, and build your skills. Focus on practical, realistic steps to maintain momentum.
Is it bad to change careers later in life?
No. Career changes happen at all stages of life. Your experience and perspective are valuable assets. With planning and the right tools, change is not only possible—it can be highly rewarding.
How long does a career change usually take?
It varies. Some people make a transition in a few months. Others take a year or more. Stay patient and persistent. Focus on steady progress rather than a fixed timeline.
Should I quit my current job before finding a new one?
If possible, plan your change while still employed. It gives you financial stability and time to search strategically. However, everyone's situation is different. Make the choice that best supports your well-being.
Final Thoughts: Take Action Toward a Fulfilling Career
The holidays are a powerful time to reflect and reset. By taking focused steps now, you set yourself up for success in the year ahead. Career transformation doesn't happen overnight. But with clarity, planning, and persistence, it’s fully achievable.
You deserve a career that aligns with your strengths and values. Use this season not just to rest, but to rise. Begin the journey toward the fulfilling work you’ve been dreaming about.
