The start of a new year makes people take stock.
If work hasn’t been sitting right, January is often when that feeling gets louder.
Maybe you’re:
Back at work but already restless
Coming off redundancy or contract work
Thinking, “I can’t do another year like last year”
A new job doesn’t start with job ads.
It starts with a CV that clearly shows what you can offer now.
Why January is a smart time to update your CV
Hiring doesn’t stop over summer. In fact, many employers:
Review roles and budgets in January
Start recruiting before the year gets busy
Want people ready to step in early
That means your CV needs to be ready before the opportunity appears - not rushed once a deadline lands.
What employers want to see in 2026
A CV that works today isn’t about fancy wording or long job descriptions.
Employers want:
Clear evidence of what you can do
Simple, easy-to-read layout
Relevant experience (not everything you’ve ever done)
Confidence without exaggeration
If an employer has to work hard to understand your value, they usually won’t.
Common CV issues I see at the start of every year
If you’re not getting interviews, it’s often because your CV:
Still reflects an old role or direction
Is too long or cluttered
Uses generic phrases that say very little
Undersells your experience
Doesn’t match the roles you’re applying for
None of these mean you’re not good enough.
They just mean your CV isn’t doing its job.
A strong CV gives you momentum
When your CV is clear and well-structured:
Applying feels easier
You’re more confident in interviews
Employers focus on your strengths
You stop second-guessing yourself
That confidence matters - especially if you’ve had a tough year at work.
Thinking about a change this year?
You don’t need to have everything figured out on day one.
Start with:
A CV that reflects who you are now
A clear story about where you’re heading
Documents that help employers see your value quickly
If 2025 was about getting through, let 2026 be about moving forward - with a CV that supports you properly.
Need help updating your CV, Cover Letter, or LinkedIn profile?
I work with people across New Zealand to create clear, practical documents that help them get interviews and move into roles that fit.
You can explore my services or get in touch when you’re ready.