The New Year is here, and it’s the perfect time to think big and plan your next move. If you’re excited about Western Australia’s buzzing tourism and hospitality scene, this is your chance to set goals that will get you closer to your dream career.
Whether you want to get promoted within your current business or land an awesome new job, these tips will help you smash your goals this year.
1. LOOK BACK AND PLAN AHEAD
Before diving into new goals, take a minute to celebrate your wins from last year. Did you crush it with customer service, improve your skills, or make valuable connections? Reflecting on these moments will help you figure out what’s next.
Ask yourself:
- What’s my dream job in the next year or two?
- How can I make that happen?
Set goals that push you out of your comfort zone but are realistic. Maybe it’s learning a new skill, taking on more responsibility, or exploring new opportunities in the industry.
2. LEVEL UP YOUR SKILLS
The tourism and hospitality world is always changing, with trends such as eco-tourism and digital marketing leading the way. Think about what skills you’re missing. Could you boost your game by learning about sustainability, social media or team management?
Sign up for online courses, workshops or short programs to get ahead of the curve and stand out from the crowd. If you haven’t already done so, register on our site as a job seeker and you’ll receive our monthly job seeker newsletter where we highlight courses and workshops (among other news) you can attend.
For development opportunities, keep an eye on the training section of this website, which is updated regularly with news of job-ready and upskilling workshops.
3. MAKE NEW CONNECTIONS
This industry is all about people, so start building your network now. Set yourself a challenge: meet at least one new person in the field every month. You can attend industry events, join groups (including many on Facebook), or simply connect with professionals on LinkedIn.
Look out for organisations in Western Australia that are all about tourism and hospitality — for example your local Skål, Women in Tourism and Hospitality WA, or check if your local area hosts business after hours events. Don’t forget to stay connected with people from past programs or events you’ve been involved in — you never know where a conversation might lead!
4. POLISH YOUR LINKEDIN PROFILE
Think of LinkedIn, a business and employment-focused social media platform, as your online CV and your personal brand all rolled into one. Make sure your profile stands out by:
- updating your profile picture so it looks professional but approachable
- showing off your skills and recent achievements in the summary section
- getting recommendations from people you’ve worked with
- posting about cool projects or industry trends to show you’re passionate and switched on.
5. FIND A MENTOR
Having someone experienced in your corner is a game-changer. A mentor can give you advice, share their journey and even introduce you to their network.
While there are professional organisations that run formal programs, you can also look for someone who’s doing what you dream of doing and reach out to them. Most people love sharing their knowledge, so don’t be afraid to ask!
6. STAY ON TOP OF TRENDS
Western Australia’s tourism and hospitality industry is constantly evolving. Keep your finger on the pulse by reading blogs, following industry news, and attending local events or conferences.
For example, eco-friendly travel is a hot topic — could you get involved in sustainability projects at your current job or start your own green initiative?
7. BALANCE WORK AND PLAY
Job seeking, especially if you are already in a role, can be full-on, so don’t forget to look after yourself. Make time for hobbies, fitness or just chilling out. A happy, energised you will be more motivated, work better and enjoy the journey more.
The tourism and hospitality industry in Western Australia is packed with opportunities for people with enthusiasm and passion. By reflecting on where you’ve been, setting fresh goals and connecting with the right people, you’re setting yourself up for an awesome year.
So, what’s your next move in 2025? Take the leap, make it happen and turn your passion into a career you love!