As we start to approach the end of another working year, many of us naturally start to reflect — on what we’ve achieved, what we’d like to improve, and where we want to be job or career wise this time next year.

In the fast-moving property and real estate industry, it’s easy to find yourself several years into a role before you stop to ask: is this still where I want to be?

At Edge Recruitment, we see this time of year as one of the best opportunities to take stock of your professional journey and decide whether your current role still supports your goals, both short and long term. 

The final months of the year are not just for closing out tasks and projects; they’re also a great chance to realign your goals and take charge of your next career chapter before the January job market kicks into full swing.

So, how can you go about an end of year check-in to make sure your current role still aligns with your career goals and set yourself up for a strong start in 2026?

Step 1: Revisit Your Career Goals

Before you assess whether your role still fits, take a moment to define what you’re aiming for.

Career goals aren’t static — they evolve as your skills, interests and circumstances change. Maybe you once wanted to climb the ladder quickly, but now you’re craving work-life balance. Or perhaps you’ve achieved stability and are ready for something more challenging.

Here are a few questions to help you clarify your goals:

• What are my short-term goals? Think 6–12 months ahead. Are you looking to gain new skills, take on more responsibility, move into a different type of property role, or perhaps work under a different management style?
  
  
• What are my long-term goals? Where do you want to be in 3–5 years? That could mean stepping into leadership, expanding into commercial or government property, or finding a role that gives you greater flexibility or regional experience.
  
  
• What matters most right now? Is it salary, stability, culture, professional growth, or location? Understanding your priorities helps guide future decisions with clarity and ensures any next move aligns with what’s most important to you today.

Step 2: Check If Your Current Role Still Aligns

Once you’ve revisited your goals, it’s time to assess whether your current role supports them, or whether it might be holding you back.

Use our end-of-year alignment checklist to help guide your reflection:

• Am I still learning and being challenged? If your days feel repetitive and you’re no longer developing new skills, it might be time to look for an environment that helps you grow.
  
  
• Do I feel valued and supported by my employer or team? Strong leadership, good communication, and recognition are key to staying engaged and motivated.
  
  
• Have I achieved the professional goals I set at the start of the year? Reflect on what you’ve accomplished, and whether your current role allows room for more.
  
  
• Does this job align with my long-term direction? If you’re aiming for management or a different specialisation, ask whether you’re gaining the right experience to get there.
  
  
• Am I being paid fairly for my skills and experience? Use this time to check industry salary benchmarks and assess your value in the current market.
  
  
• Do I feel excited about the year ahead? If the answer is no, that might be your biggest signal that it’s time for a change.

Step 3: Take Proactive Action Before the New Year

The end of the year often feels like a time to wind down, but in recruitment, it’s actually one of the smartest times to prepare for your next move.

Many property and real estate employers start planning their new-year hires in November and December, meaning candidates who are ready early stand out when roles go live in January. Updating your resume, reconnecting with your recruiter, or exploring market trends now can give you a valuable head start.

If you’re unsure what opportunities are out there, or you’d simply like to explore your options, a confidential chat with one of Edge Recruitment’s specialists can help you understand what’s possible — whether that’s a new challenge, a higher-level role, or simply reassurance that you’re right where you need to be.

Step 4: Set Yourself Up for a Strong Start in 2026

Reflecting now doesn’t necessarily mean you have to make a big move, but it does mean you’re being intentional about your career.

By aligning your role with your evolving goals, you can walk into the new year confident that your work is taking you in the right direction.

At Edge Recruitment, we specialise in helping property and real estate professionals across South Australia find roles that match not only their skills, but their lifestyle and long-term ambitions. Whether you’re seeking better balance, new challenges, or your next step in property management, sales, facilities, or corporate support — we’re here to help you make your next move count.

Contact the Edge Recruitment team for a confidential chat before the end of the year — and start 2026 with clarity, purpose, and momentum.