The September career checklist

September has arrived. The days are getting shorter, the holiday season is giving way to a renewed focus, and the work rhythm is picking up again. For many professionals, this is the perfect time to take stock of their career and set new goals. But where do you start? With this handy September career checklist from recruitment specialist Robert Walters, you’ll be well-prepared to make the most of the autumn months.

1. Create a career mood board

Instead of simply making lists, why not take a more visual approach to your reflection? Create a mood board that captures your professional dreams, goals, and sources of inspiration. Use images, quotes, or even photos of people who inspire you. Place it somewhere visible so you can look at it regularly – it will help keep you motivated and focused.

2. Schedule a personal evaluation meeting

We’re used to having evaluation meetings with our managers, but why not organise one with yourself? Take an hour to critically assess your performance over the past year. What went well? What could be improved? Ask yourself questions like: “What have I learned?” and “Where do I want to be in six months?” Write everything down as if you were preparing a report – this will help you identify concrete action points.

3. Create an anti-procrastination plan

Struggling to leave the summer mindset behind? Procrastination is the enemy of progress. Make a plan to actively combat it. For example: set deadlines for yourself that are slightly earlier than necessary, use the Pomodoro technique (working in 25-minute blocks), or reward yourself after completing important tasks. By tackling procrastination head-on, you’ll ensure projects don’t get left unfinished.

4. Organise a career brainstorming session

You don’t have to do everything on your own! Invite a few trusted friends or colleagues for an informal brainstorming session about your career plans. Ask them for feedback on your ideas and goals, and encourage them to share their own plans too. These conversations can lead to surprising insights and mutual motivation.

5. Try out a new work style

September is the perfect month to experiment with how you work. For instance, try working for a week using the "deep work" method (focusing uninterrupted on one task), explore hybrid working if possible, or experiment with time blocking in your calendar. By consciously trying new approaches, you’ll discover what works best for you.

6. Make room for micro-ambitions

Big goals are important, but don’t underestimate the power of small ambitions! Choose three to five micro-ambitions that you can achieve within one month. Examples include: “Read one new article about my field every day” or “Complete a short online course.” Achieving these small successes will give you energy and momentum to tackle larger goals.

7. Write a letter to yourself

This might sound unusual, but it can be incredibly powerful! Write a letter to yourself describing where you want to be in six months and the steps you’ll take to get there. Seal the letter in an envelope and put it away – perhaps in a drawer or between books on your desk. Open it again in March and see how much progress you’ve made.

8. Do a digital detox

How much time do you lose each day scrolling through emails, social media, or notifications? September is the perfect time to change that! Turn off unnecessary notifications, organise your inbox (using filters and labels), and schedule fixed times for checking social media. A digital detox will improve your focus and reduce stress.

9. Develop your personal elevator pitch

Whether networking at events or unexpectedly meeting someone who could play an important role in your career: having a strong elevator pitch is invaluable. Take time to refine your story – who are you, what do you do, and what are your goals? Practise until it feels natural so that you're always ready to make an impression.

Ready to take action?

September is the ideal moment to reassess your career and daily life with fresh eyes. With this checklist, you can move forward with clarity and make the most of the months ahead. Take that first step, carve out time for yourself, and give your professional future the attention it deserves!

More information

If you are looking for your next career move, view the latest opportunities from Robert Walters. Or if you have a friend looking for a new job, why not be rewarded for recommending Robert Walters? Learn more about our referral scheme and refer your friend today.