Taking Control of Your Career – Part One of Our Candidate Support Series
- Michelle Denny
- Apr 2
- 2 min read
Your career is one of the biggest investments you will ever make, yet so many professionals find themselves drifting rather than directing or not sure which direction to take...
Whether you are an aspiring leader or already established at a senior level, taking control of your career is not just about finding the next opportunity but about making strategic decisions that align with your long-term goals.
At Michelle Denny Recruitment Consultancy, we are not just an agency that fills jobs, we are consultants who work with professionals like you to shape and support your career journey. In this first instalment of our candidate support series, we will guide you through practical steps to take ownership of your professional future.

1. Define Your Career Goals
Before you start exploring new roles, take a step back and reflect on where you are and where you want to be. Ask yourself:
What drives me professionally?
What kind of impact do I want to make in my field?
What industries or roles excite me the most?
What are my non-negotiables when it comes to work-life balance, salary, and company culture?
Clarity is power. Having a clear vision will help you focus your efforts and make confident career moves.
2. Assess Your Current Position
Understanding your current skill set, experience, and market value is essential. Consider:
What are my core strengths, and how do they differentiate me?
What feedback have I received from colleagues and managers?
Are there any skill gaps I need to address before progressing?
A professional career audit will help identify areas for development and ensure you are positioning yourself effectively for new opportunities.
3. Build a Strategic Job Search Plan

A targeted approach is far more effective than a scattergun application process. To maximise your chances:
Research companies and industries that align with your goals
Update your CV and LinkedIn profile with achievements rather than responsibilities
Network actively – attending industry events, connecting with professionals, and engaging in relevant discussions
Approach your job search like a business project, setting clear milestones and tracking progress
4. Develop Your Personal Brand
Your reputation and visibility in your industry can make all the difference. Consider:
Creating thought leadership content on LinkedIn
Engaging in speaking opportunities or panel discussions
Building relationships with key influencers in your sector
Showcasing your expertise through case studies, blogs, or mentorship
A strong personal brand makes you more attractive to employers and opens up opportunities that may not be publicly advertised.
5. Work with a Consultancy, Not Just a Recruiter
At MDR Consultancy, we take a different approach to career support. Rather than simply placing candidates into roles, we partner with professionals to help them make informed, strategic decisions. Whether you are looking to step into leadership, transition industries, or simply gain clarity on your next move, we offer tailored guidance to align with your aspirations.
Your Next Step
Taking control of your career starts with action. If you are considering your next move and want expert guidance, get in touch with our team today.
Stay tuned for Part Two of our candidate support series, where we will explore job search strategies that set you apart from the competition.
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