Want a raise or promotion in 2026? Career experts say to do these 4 things now

"Before your inbox fills up again, there are steps you can take now to set the stage for a strong 2026 at work. The end of the year presents a natural time to reflect on what you've done and what you hope to do in the months ahead. Whether it's building AI skills, getting a raise, or leveling up your networking, you likely have plenty of goals to consider as you plan for the year ahead."

"As the year comes to a close, it's smart to write down three or four bullet points about what you achieved, Marc Cenedella, founder and CEO of Ladders, told Business Insider. Then, hang onto that list so that when you someday leave your job, you'll be able to recall what you did. Eventually, having perhaps dozens of bullet points to choose from will be a godsend, he said."

"That type of list is what Jasmine Escalera, a career expert with MyPerfectResume, calls a " brag sheet" of your major contributions. It's the kind of ammunition that can be helpful even if you're not leaving your job but want to ask for a promotion or a raise. "What are the top things that really showcase the impact that you've made?" she previously told Business Insider."

Use year-end downtime to document achievements and capture three to four bullet points now, building a longer brag sheet over time for raises, promotions, or job searches. Reflect on specific goals such as building AI skills, pursuing a raise, or expanding networking to guide priorities for the coming year. Take advantage of slower holiday periods to decide the type of coworker and professional reputation to cultivate. Make deliberate early moves as January approaches to build momentum and preserve clear evidence of impact for evaluations or career transitions.

Read at Business Insider