TOP 3 TIPS FOR LANDING YOUR NEXT ROLE IN 2026

The start of a new year is the perfect time to hit refresh on your career. Whether you’re in property, construction, or corporate services, small updates to your approach can make a big difference in helping you land the role you want. Here are our top three tips for candidates looking to stand out in 2026. 

1. Refresh Your Resume 

Your CV is often the first impression a recruiter or hiring manager will have of you so make it count. Start by tailoring it to the roles you want and emphasise relevant experience and achievements and remove anything that no longer adds value. 

Quantify your impact wherever possible: for example, “Managed a $2M project delivered two weeks ahead of schedule” is far more powerful than a generic description. Make sure your skills section reflects what employers are looking for in 2026, including technical skills, software proficiency, and any certifications relevant to your industry. 

2. Optimise Your LinkedIn Profile 

LinkedIn isn’t just an online CV, it’s a networking and visibility tool. Recruiters often search for candidates by skills and keywords, so updating your headline, summary, and experience to match your career goals can make a huge difference. 

Add recent projects, achievements, and certifications, and don’t forget to showcase your personality, professional yet approachable tone goes a long way. Engage with content in your field by commenting, sharing insights, or posting updates about your work. Active profiles tend to attract more recruiter attention. 

3. Network Strategically 

While your CV and LinkedIn profile are important, real opportunities often come through connections. Reconnect with former colleagues, attend industry events, and join professional groups, both online and in person. 

When networking, focus on building genuine relationships rather than just asking for jobs. Offer value by sharing insights, congratulating achievements, or exchanging ideas. Over time, these connections can open doors you might not even know exist. 

Small Changes, Big Results 

Even minor improvements across your resume, LinkedIn, and networking strategy can dramatically increase your visibility and attractiveness to employers. Starting 2026 with these updates can set the tone for a productive and successful year. 

If you’re unsure where to start, Belkirk can help guide your career journey. Let’s make 2026 the year you land your next big role.