Here are some ideas how to land that new job in 2026.
Put the building blocks in place
This is about exploring your options then narrowing down what you really want. It can help to make a list of non-negotiables: the things you decide a job must involve for you to say ‘yes’. This could include location, schedule, work-life balance, salary or training.
Next, research roles and workplaces you’re interested in. You could do a skills assessment, and if there are gaps, look for ways to expand your skills – perhaps through volunteering or a course.
It’s also a good time to contact a professional resume writer.
Practice a positive mindset
A positive outlook can be a big support to your job search, especially through setbacks. Look for what will keep you feeling motivated during your job search.
Try to take something positive from every step along the way, as this will keep you in a resilient headspace. Maybe you’ve got your resumé in better shape than ever. Or perhaps you’ve discovered you can answer a certain interview question well and can take that into your next interview.
Open the door for opportunities
Do all you can to proactively find opportunities and direct them your way. Set up saved searches on SEEK so you get alerts when new jobs pop up matching your criteria.
Make sure your SEEK profile and resume are up to date. Check your profile visibility is set to Standard so employers can find you.
Talk to people in your industry or the industry you’re interested in. You might be surprised at how willing people are to help and the options they could open up.
If you’re interested in a particular company or organisation, you could consider contacting them directly about jobs.
Boost your interview confidence
If there’s one thing you can do to feel more confident going into your interview, it’s practice.
It might feel strange at first to go through ‘mock’ questions or rehearse what you’ll say. But this practice is essential to providing clear, compelling answers in your interview – and showing the interviewer you’re right for the role.
There are plenty of standard interview questions you can prepare for, like the classic ‘tell me about yourself’ or ‘what are your weaknesses’ questions.
Think of the industry-specific questions you might be asked and look back to the job ad or selection criteria. Work out the examples you can provide to back up each answer.
It’s a good idea to run through job questions and answers with a friend, family member or professional if you can. As you go through interviews, reflect on each experience. How did it go well? How could you do better next time?
Consider offers with care
You might feel you have to say ‘yes’ to the first offer you get. But it’s worth reviewing a job offer thoroughly to make sure that it’s right for you.
Ask yourself – will this job help me achieve my career goals? Will it provide the working environment I’m looking for?
Are the salary and benefits suitable? Look back to your list of non-negotiables and find out if a company is the right fit for you before you apply.
Be ready to review a written offer carefully before you accept the job – and politely decline the offer if you decide it’s not right for you.
Make room in your job search for planning, practice, building a positive mindset, seeking out opportunities and considering your wants and needs.
That way, you’ll be on track to landing the job you really want.
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