1. Your self-awareness is key.

Hone in on your personal skills for pursuing whatever career direction and industry you choose. Be critical in considering what your skills and competency levels are and how applicable they are to your career/work. What are you good at and what you’re not, plain and simple.  

Some people might say “work is work, it’s all the same!” The people who truly understand what they enjoy and apply it to their work go farther in their chosen careers. Awareness and choices based on this understanding will help you avoid disappointing experiences and provide more personal job satisfaction.

2. Your career path should be in writing.

 By writing down your career path you inadvertently make yourself responsible for your decisions.  This should include every aspect of what you currently do and what you want to do going forward. Own your career path decisions and be responsible for keeping your goal promises.  This can always be a work in progress, but should be a compass to help you navigate your career in the right direction. 

3. Grow or maintain a professional network.

Having a strong professional network is essential for your career.  You should always be building and managing your network. This can help with advice, introductions, career changes, and hiring.  Making connections online and offline these days can be easier than ever. Reach out to people and accept invites. You should also build personal relationships with managers and colleagues you admire. There are many associations, clubs, groups and conferences where you can connect and share ideas with like-minded professionals.  

4.  Don’t be afraid to seek career development help.

 Need help in identifying career gaps? Look for help within resources externally and internally at your job through.

        – Mentoring

        – Career Coaching

        – Human Resources

        – Career Centers

        – Recruiting Agencies

        – Training Classes

        – Job Shadowing

A “lifer” is someone who stays in a job for far too long and ultimately stagnates and never moves in any sort of path.  A “hopper” is someone that jumps around from job to job too frequently. The length of time needed to be a “hopper or lifer” for types of industries or jobs could be argued.

In 2019, it is safe to say that multiple job moves in less than two years makes a person look unstable for recruiters and future employers.  The other side of the spectrum you have “lifers,” working in the same company at the same job 10+ years giving a perception of questionable motivation level and ability to deal with change.  What career path looks best? Certainly one that provides a healthy work life balance and that motivates, challenges and inspires personal growth.  

6. Don’t be afraid to take risks.

Don’t let job security or company culture make you feel too comfortable in any position. Change is good! Take a chance at a new position. Don’t wait for the timing to be right if the opportunity presents itself. 

7. Share your career path.

In the social media world everything is shared, why not share your career path with your friends and family, employers and employees. Your aspirations may be similar or different to your peers, which could spark advice or even new inspirations to your own path.

The team at SRI would love to help you find your dream job. https://srisearch.com/