Amy Court
07881 371 993
Dan Court
07505 454 007
707 Warwick Road, Building 9, The Courtyard, Solihull, B91 3DA

A New Year, A New Chapter: Is 2026 the Right Time for a Career Move?

The start of a new year often brings reflection. For many professionals across the built environment, January prompts important questions:


Am I progressing? Am I being challenged? Is this role still right for me long term?

While a new year can spark thoughts of change, the right career move is rarely impulsive. It’s about clarity, timing and alignment with your long-term goals.

Reflection, Not Rash Decisions

After a demanding year, it’s natural to reassess. Project pressures, business changes or limited progression can all create uncertainty. That doesn’t always mean it’s time to move but it does mean it’s worth reflecting.

Consider the following:

  • Are you gaining the experience and exposure you expected?
  • Is there a clear progression path?
  • Do you feel supported and valued?
  • Does the company culture align with your career stage and personal priorities?

Often, honest reflection provides more clarity than scrolling job boards.

What Professionals Are Looking for in 2026

Salary matters, but it’s rarely the sole driver behind a well-considered career move. Increasingly, professionals are prioritising:

  • Quality projects and long-term pipelines
  • Strong leadership and team culture
  • Opportunities to broaden skills and responsibility
  • Work-life balance and flexibility
  • Stability and longevity, not just job titles

Many professionals are not actively job hunting they are simply open to the right opportunity.

The Value of Confidential Career Conversations

Not every recruitment conversation needs to lead to an application. Some of the most valuable discussions are exploratory.

A confidential conversation allows you to:

  • Sense-check your market value
  • Understand current demand for your skillset
  • Learn about opportunities not publicly advertised
  • Explore options discreetly, without pressure

At Blue Diamond Recruitment, many conversations are about planning ahead which often leads to stronger, more informed decisions.

Timing Is Everything

A successful career move is rarely driven by urgency. It’s driven by alignment.

Moves made out of frustration often lead to short-term solutions, while moves made with clarity tend to deliver long-term satisfaction. Whether a change happens now or later in the year, understanding your options early puts you in control.

Looking Ahead

2026 doesn’t have to begin with a resignation letter. Sometimes, it simply starts with a conversation.

If you’re reflecting on your career, considering your next step or wanting insight into the current built environment job market, a discreet, no-obligation discussion can be a valuable first step.

At Blue Diamond Recruitment, we believe in an ethical, honest and reliable recruitment approach built on trust and long-term relationships.

If you’d like to talk through your plans for the year ahead, please submit an enquiry or reach out directly for a confidential discussion.

Amy & Dan Court
Directors | Blue Diamond Recruitment

Blue Diamond Recruitment is a family-run, specialist agency connecting exceptional talent with leading organisations across the house building and construction industries sector.

Founded by Amy and Dan Court, we bring over 20 years' combined industry experience to provide personalised recruitment services spanning land acquisition, construction, design, technical roles and more, all whilst maintaining our commitment to quality placements and charitable giving.

  • 707 Warwick Road, Building 9, The Courtyard, Solihull, B91 3DA
Copyright © 2026 Blue Diamond Recruitment

Lichfield Website Design by Fellowship Studios