End-of-year skills audit in 5 easy steps

An end-of-year skills audit is a simple way to figure out where you’re at and what you want to focus on in the next year. So, let’s break it down into 5 easy steps.

1. Reflect on your goals

Before you dive into your skills audit, take a step back and think about the goals you set for yourself this year. They don’t have to be the big, life-changing ones; even smaller, everyday goals count. What did you hope to achieve professionally, personally, or academically? Maybe you wanted to improve your work-life balance, learn a new skill, or take on more leadership opportunities. Reflecting on your progress toward these goals will give you a clearer picture of what’s been working and what might need more attention.

2. List the skills you’ve used

Let’s list out the skills you’ve put into action this year. Think about both the technical skills (like data analysis, research, or policy expertise) and the softer skills (like communication, leadership, or adaptability). These skills might have come from your Chevening studies or from work, volunteering, or side projects you’ve been involved in.

3. Assess your competence and confidence

Now, take a step back and assess your proficiency in each skill. Use a simple scale to rate how confident you feel, such as:

1: Needs improvement

2: Competent

3: Expert

Think about how each skill has played a role in your work since completing your Chevening year. For example, have you been able to effectively lead teams, leverage your networks, or apply your knowledge in new, impactful ways? Be honest with yourself—this audit isn’t about perfection, it’s about clarity.

4. Identify gaps and opportunities for growth

With your list and self-assessment in hand, identify any gaps or skills that you’d like to improve. Are there skills you didn’t get a chance to explore during your time at university? Perhaps your work or volunteer experience this year has highlighted new areas you want to explore, like digital innovation or public speaking.

Think about how you can leverage your Chevening experience to fill these gaps. Maybe there’s a project or an area of research you can dive deeper into, or perhaps you’d like to attend a leadership workshop or connect with a mentor from your alumni network.

5. Set priorities for the year ahead

Now that you’ve figured out where you are and where you want to grow, it’s time to focus on your top priorities for the year ahead. Pick 2-3 skills to focus on and set specific, actionable goals. Want to sharpen your leadership skills? Maybe aim to lead a project or take on more responsibility at work. Or, if you’re keen to dive into data analysis, set a goal to complete a relevant online course or workshop.

Whatever it is, make sure your goals are specific, measurable, and aligned with your long-term career ambitions. This is all about setting yourself up for success in 2025.

Wrapping it up

An end-of-year skills audit is a simple but powerful way to reflect on how far you’ve come and how to keep pushing forward. As a Chevening alumnus, you’ve already built a solid foundation, and now’s your chance to fine-tune the skills that will take you even further. Take a moment to assess where you’ve been, where you are, and where you want to go.