When is the last time you took a good hard look at your career path? How far you’ve come and where you want to go. It’s never too late, or too early, to set yourself up in your current job to get that promotion, be selected for a new position or find yourself recruited by another organization altogether. Here are five tips to help you prepare for and execute on your next big move.
Let your advocates know
Tell your trusted network about your job aspirations. These friends and colleagues can offer the
advice, insights and introductions that will help you advance in your career – one of them may
even advocate to bring you along with them! And, of course, it’s always a good idea to have a
recruiter as part of your support team. Recruiters are well-networked and when we’re made
aware of what you’re looking for, we will find you matching job opportunities.
Share your progress and success
It’s hard to boast about yourself. And there’s a time and place for it and proper way to do
it. But unless the decision makers in your company (or at the company where you
want to transition to) know about your contributions and the value you bring, they won’t have the
information they need to confidently offer you more responsibility or a new role. Day to day,
keep your head down and get the job done. It’s a great work ethic! But when the time comes –
during a review or a casual walk to grab coffee – be prepared with examples of your
accomplishments to let the right people know what you have been up to.
Keep learning
Continuing your education and professional development is important and can be fun at
any stage of career. When you have decided what your next move is going to be,
go back to the classroom to take a related course or shadow someone in your company.
It will strengthen your marketability and bring you that much closer to the job you seek.
Mentor others
Being a manager comes with great responsibility and the opportunity to truly mentor. Imparting your knowledge and experience will help your team members grow in their careers and allows you to continue to grow in your own.
RSVP Yes
Accept the work and outside-of-work invitations even when you’re buried in emails or so
tired all you want is your couch. You’ll meet someone new, learn something new and inevitably
hear about a new job opportunity. And when that great opportunity presents itself, even if it’s
intimidating, take it!
“If someone offers you an amazing opportunity and you’re not sure you can do it,
say yes – then learn how to do it later.”
– Richard Branson, Founder of Virgin Group
– Carly Glova with Building Careers