How to Advance Your Career in 2026

Is a promotion or new job on your radar for 2026? Skills shortages in certain areas continue to offer opportunities for career progression, but make sure you’re progressing in a way that will help you achieve your long-term career goals.

So, how do you advance your career in 2026? Here are our top career progression tips

Career advancement tips for 2026

Achieving significant career advancement in the coming year involves more than just working hard. It requires a thoughtful and strategic plan that aligns with both your personal ambitions and emerging industry trends. By focusing on specific areas of improvement and opportunity, you can position yourself as an invaluable asset to any organisation.

1. Set clear career goals

The foundation of any successful career strategy is a set of well-defined career goals. Without a clear destination, it’s impossible to map out the route. Start by reflecting on what you truly want to achieve in your career over the next few years. Think about what your dream job looks like and what steps are needed to get there.

Break down your long-term career goals into smaller, manageable actions. This could involve:

Identifying specific skills you need to acquire.
Outlining the experience required for potential career paths.
Setting targets for your next performance review.
Consistency between your online presence and real-life behaviour builds trust and authenticity.

This process provides clarity and a tangible roadmap for your career development journey, making your ambitions feel more attainable.

2. Leverage AI and automation

Artificial intelligence and automation are no longer future concepts; they are integral parts of the modern workplace. Understanding and leveraging AI tools is essential for staying relevant and efficient. Instead of viewing them as a threat, see them as assistants that can handle repetitive tasks, allowing you to focus on strategic, creative, and interpersonal aspects of your job.

Familiarise yourself with the AI tools relevant to your field. This knowledge will not only boost your productivity but also demonstrate your ability to adapt to a changing work environment. Proactively seeking out training in this area can open up new career opportunities and show your commitment to innovation.

3. Enhance your human skills

While technical skills are important, uniquely human abilities like communication, empathy, critical thinking, and creativity are becoming more valuable than ever. These are the skills that AI cannot replicate. Focusing on enhancing your EQ (emotional intelligence) will differentiate you in the job market.

Take on projects that require collaboration, problem-solving, and client interaction. Seek feedback on your communication style and actively work on your ability to connect with colleagues and stakeholders. Strong interpersonal skills are often the deciding factor when it comes to leadership opportunities.

If you want to improve your skills, Hays Learning offers thousands of free courses accessible anytime, anywhere by simply signing up.

4. Invest in in-demand skills

There’s a huge focus on hiring for skills, rather than focusing solely on experience or accreditations. Employers are more open to transferrable skills and re-establishing what capabilities are essential in a role and what are desirable. In return, they want to know you can be trusted to produce results.

So, in addition to adding your key skills to your resume, ensure that you also include success metrics and examples in your resume and online professional profile as proof that you can deliver against the skills. When preparing for an interview, practice articulating your skills set as well as quantifiable results in your answers to common interview questions.

5. Build your personal brand

Your personal brand is how you are perceived professionally. It's the story told through your work, online presence, and interactions. A strong, positive personal brand can significantly impact your career trajectory.

Define your brand: Start by deciding what you want to be known for professionally.
Share your expertise: Post your insights on platforms like LinkedIn and contribute to industry discussions.
Showcase your work: Highlight your achievements to demonstrate your skills and impact.
Embody your values: Ensure that your core values are reflected in your actions and interactions in person, whether during interviews, in meetings, or in everyday professional settings.

Consistency between your online presence and real-life behaviour builds trust and authenticity.

6. Expand your network

Your professional network is one of your most powerful career assets. Building genuine connections with colleagues, peers, and industry leaders can provide you with support, advice, and access to unadvertised roles. Update your LinkedIn profile and make a conscious effort to connect with people both inside and outside your current job.

Attend industry events, engage in online forums, and seek out potential mentors who can guide you. A strong network not only offers a safety net but also acts as a source of inspiration and information, helping you identify potential advancement pathways and leadership roles.

7. Look beyond the paycheck

While financial compensation is an important factor, basing your career decisions solely on salary can lead to dissatisfaction. True career fulfilment comes from finding a role that aligns with your values, interests, and long-term aspirations.

When considering a new role or additional responsibilities, think about the bigger picture.

Opportunities for learning and career growth
A positive company culture
Comprehensive benefits (beyond just salary)
Flexible work arrangements

Pursuing a career that you are passionate about will lead to greater job satisfaction and, often, greater financial rewards in the long run.

8. Be adaptable to change

In 2026, it will become even more important for organisations to be able to pivot quickly and remain agile, and employees need to be adaptable. Change readiness is a valuable skill, so learn to adapt to change, drive innovation, adopt new technology and implement best practices. By building on your ability to respond quickly and positively to change, you’ll help your career success.

9. Take initiative in your current role

Career advancement doesn’t always require a new job title. Sometimes, the best way to grow is by maximising the opportunities right where you are. Here’s how:

Research opportunities: Look for areas where you can add value to your team or organisation. This could involve streamlining processes, proposing new ideas, seeking more responsibility, or tackling challenges others may shy away from.
Volunteer for new challenges: Step forward to take on responsibilities or projects that might be outside your usual scope. This not only helps you gain new skills but also shows your leadership potential.
Communicate goals: Discuss your aspirations with your supervisor and ask for their support in achieving them. Whether it’s learning a new skill or leading a project, having their backing can open doors.
Pay attention to detail: Addressing small problems and optimising everyday workflows can have a big impact. Demonstrating attention to detail shows dedication to your role and a drive to improve efficiency.

How to get a job in 2026

By taking charge of your career and dedicating the time, hard work and interest in career planning, you'll have the advantage in finding a role that will allow you to achieve your career goals and advance your professional development in the new year and into the future.

Remember to search our available jobs or explore our career advice hub for more tips. Good luck.