Every January, there’s a collective rush to update resumes, refresh LinkedIn profiles, and get everything in order for a potential job search. Bullet points get rewritten, job titles get polished, and skills get neatly categorized in the hope of standing out in a competitive market. And while having a well-structured, compelling resume is important, here’s the real question: What if landing your next role isn’t just about perfecting a document?

The best career moves aren’t just about looking good on paper—they’re about knowing what you actually want. A job search shouldn’t start with a resume; it should start with reflection. Instead of focusing solely on how you present yourself to potential employers, take a step back and consider:

• What kind of work excites and challenges you?

• What type of environment helps you thrive—structured or flexible, collaborative or independent?

• What do you want more of in your next role? More leadership opportunities? More creativity? More balance?

• And just as importantly, what do you want less of? Less micromanagement? Fewer late-night emails? Less misalignment with your values?

A strong resume can get you in the door, but clarity about your goals is what truly sets you apart in interviews—and ultimately leads to the right job, not just any job. Hiring managers aren’t just looking for people with impressive credentials; they’re looking for candidates who know who they are, what they bring to the table, and where they want to go next.

So before you dive into a job search, take the time to get clear on your direction. Because the best career moves don’t happen just because your resume is polished—they happen when you align your next step with what truly matters to you.