7 Tips for Paving your Professional Career Path
For most professionals, getting a job is the first of many steps involved in building a long and successful career. A major factor in a candidate’s job decision is typically whether a job offers growth potential and is a logical step in his or her personal career goals. Career pathing can be challenging and unclear in the early stages. Use the following tips to help navigate your own professional path.
1. Learn your Passions
While your education or place of business may lay out a specific career path, don’t assume that is the only route or the right one for you. Explore other roles and ask yourself which jobs you like and which positions you may aspire to in the future.
2. Connect with a Career Counselor or Transition Coach
Many companies have their own counselors to discuss career planning and organizational opportunities with their employees. A career counselor can help you create a roadmap to get there.
3. Develop Relationships with a Recruiter who Supports your Discipline
Throughout your career, get to know recruiters in your skill area who are equipped to assist you in your job search or career path. Connect with recruiters on LinkedIn and by reaching out to staffing companies you’re interested in working with.
4. Make your Leadership Aware of your Goals
Once you’ve identified some possible goals, be open with a manager or career counselor and let him or her know where you see yourself. They can help you establish the skills and exposure you’ll need to get where you want to be.
5. Identify what you’ll Need to Get There
Know what qualifications, skills, and experience your next career move requires and start working now to ensure you’re a good match when an opportunity presents itself. Check and see if your company offers opportunities like this and take advantage.
6. Set Timelines to Stay on Track
Sketch out a rough timeline for your next few career steps, and check it periodically to see how you’re progressing. Creating a vision for your career can help you stay the course to achieve your goals.
7. Be Persistent
Your professional career is something that will take time and energy to develop and get where you want to be. You may take some steps backward or sideways before you make a move forward. Through the obstacles, be persistent in your pursuit of a career that is challenging and fulfilling to you.
Source: Apex Systems