Late August is one of the best times to evaluate your career goals. Whether you’re actively searching or just thinking about what’s next, this time of year creates a natural reset. Summer’s winding down, inboxes are getting busier, and companies are gearing up to make key hires before the end of the year.
At CSP, we see it every year: once Labor Day hits, hiring activity picks up fast, and the candidates who are ready with their resume polished, goals established, and LinkedIn updated tend to move more efficiently.
Whether you’re planning a move or want to prep for when the right opportunity comes along, follow this simple checklist before fall hiring season:
Refresh Your Resume (Even if You’re Not Looking)
This one is essential–even if you’re not applying for roles today, have your resume ready to go for when someone says, “Can you send over your resume?”
Remember to:
- Add any new wins, certifications, or recent projects
- Quantify outcomes (think: “reduced processing time by 18%)
- Make sure it’s easy to read and cleanly formatted.
Tip: Save it as a PDF using your full name, e.g., “John Doe Resume 2025.” It sounds simple, but it makes a difference.
Update Your LinkedIn Profile
LinkedIn is usually the first place hiring managers and recruiters check, especially when reaching out to passive candidates. Similar to refreshing your resume:
- Make sure your headline and current role are up to date
- Add skills, credentials, or accomplishments from this year. LinkedIn data shows that members who list at least five skills are contacted up to 33x more often by recruiters.
- Review your “Open to Work” Preferences, even if they’re private
Tip: Create a LinkedIn post sharing a short win or industry insight to stay visible within your network.
Reconnect With a Recruiter You Trust
Even if you’re not actively searching, it’s still smart to touch base with your network. Let your recruiter know what’s changed, what you’re curious about, and what types of opportunities might interest you.
If you’re not currently working with a recruiter, now is a great time to begin the relationship before the post-Labor Day hiring surge.
Take Inventory of Your Goals
This doesn’t need to be a 10-year plan. It can be as simple as asking:
- What kind of work has energized me this year?
- What am I ready to grow into?
- What kind of team or culture do I want more of?
Establishing clarity now helps you move faster when the right opportunity comes along.
Clean Up Your Digital Footprint
Take a few minutes to Google yourself and review your social media. Remove anything outdated or off-brand, or adjust your privacy settings. You don’t need to curate the perfect image, just a consistent, professional one.
Celebrate What You’ve Accomplished This Year
Before jumping into “what’s next,” pause and reflect:
- What project went well this summer?
- Where did you lead or support others in a meaningful way?
- What feedback did you receive that made you proud?
Taking stock builds momentum and gives you language to use in your next interview or performance review.
Key Takeaway
You don’t need to overhaul your career overnight, but a little intention this time of year can set you up nicely for when the right doors open up later. Whether you’re ready to make a career change or just want to stay prepared, this checklist will help you confidently head into fall feeling polished and ready for what’s next.
Considering a change?
Chesapeake Search Partners helps professionals explore opportunities that align with their growth goals. If you’re preparing for a career move, visit our Candidate Resources page for tools, tips, and practical guidance to help you get started.
Share your resume, or reach out to our team at info@chesapeakesearchpartners.com