​Most people don’t just stumble into career success — it’s planned, intentional, and built on smart decisions. If your current career strategy consists of hoping for the best and seeing what happens, it’s time to rethink your approach. Developing a career action plan isn’t about creating a rigid five-year spreadsheet (unless that’s your thing); it’s about setting clear, realistic goals that move you forward with purpose.

​

Why You Need a Career Action Plan

Think of your career like a road trip. You wouldn’t just jump in the car with no destination, no fuel, and no GPS—so why do the same with your professional life? A career action plan helps you:

• Define what success looks like (because “I just want a good job” is too vague to be useful).

• Identify the steps needed to get there (hint: winging it isn’t a strategy).

• Stay motivated and focused when obstacles pop up (and they will).

​

Step 1: Get Real About What You Want

Forget what you think you should do. What do you actually want? What kind of work energises you? Do you want leadership responsibility? Flexibility? High earnings? A clear sense of purpose? If you’re not sure, reflect on past roles—what did you love, and what made you want to quit on a Monday morning?

​

Step 2: Set SMART Goals

Vague goals lead to vague results. Instead of saying, “I want a better job,” try:

• Specific – “I want to move into a management role in marketing.”

• Measurable – “I need to complete a leadership course and mentor a junior colleague.”

• Achievable – “I’ll gain the necessary skills over the next 12 months.”

• Relevant – “This aligns with my long-term goal of leading a team.”

• Time-bound – “I’ll apply for management roles by this time next year.”

​

Step 3: Fill the Gaps in Your Skills and Experience

Once you know where you want to go, it’s time to get honest: what’s stopping you from getting there? Do you lack a specific qualification? Need more leadership experience? Is your LinkedIn profile embarrassingly outdated? Identify the gaps and start filling them.

• Take relevant courses or certifications.

• Seek out projects that give you the experience you need.

• Find a mentor or coach who can guide you.

• Network with people in your desired field (yes, even if you hate networking. It really will open doors for you.).

​

Step 4: Build a Personal Brand That Works for You

Recruiters and hiring managers aren’t just looking at your CV—they’re checking your LinkedIn, online presence, and even your social media. Make sure you’re showcasing your skills, sharing industry insights, and positioning yourself as someone worth hiring or promoting. If your LinkedIn profile is a ghost town, fix that immediately.

​

Step 5: Track Your Progress and Adjust

A career plan isn’t set in stone. Maybe you realise your dream job isn’t all it’s cracked up to be, or an unexpected opportunity shifts your path. That’s fine. The key is to review your progress regularly and adjust as needed.

Ask yourself:

• Am I moving towards my goals?

• Have my priorities changed?

• Do I need to refine my approach?

​

How VANRATH Can Help

Creating a career plan is one thing—executing it is another. That’s where VANRATH comes in. As specialists in career progression, we connect professionals with opportunities that align with their skills, ambitions, and long-term goals. Whether you need guidance on your next move, insights into industry trends, or access to roles that aren’t even advertised, we’re here to help.

​

A career action plan isn’t about having every single step mapped out—it’s about having direction, clarity, and the ability to adapt when needed. The people who get ahead in their careers go out and make things happen. And with a solid plan, so can you.