If you feel stagnant in your career, it may be time to start looking for opportunities for advancement. However, with these higher positions comes tougher competition. Here are some things that you can do to help you stand out from the crowd:
MAKE GOALS
When it comes to your career, it’s important that you always have a goal that you are working towards. This could be a measurable short term goal for your job, such as completing a major project. Alternatively, this could also be a longer term goal for your overall career, such as improved metrics for your job. If you always have a goal in mind, you’ll always know what you’re working toward.
ALWAYS BE NETWORKING
We’ve all heard the saying ‘it’s not what you know but who you know.’ Networking is so important in the business world, even if you aren’t looking for a new job at the time. You never know when a connection you’ve made could lead to a great opportunity in the future.
ASK FOR FEEDBACK
Schedule a time to sit down with your boss to ask for feedback on your job performance. It’s important that this is a completely honest conversation where you don’t act defensive or make excuses for critiques. Obviously, none of us like hearing negative things about ourselves, but sometimes it’s necessary to help us grow as an employee. Share your goals with your employer so they can better assist you to achieving them.
KEEP IMPROVING
The world is constantly changing and so is the corporate world. If you feel there is a training or seminar that would help improve your job performance, pitch it to your employer. In many cases, paying for some career development opportunities is less expensive than training a whole new employee. Use your own time to develop a skill that can be used in your job. This will show your employer that you take initiative and are dedicated to your job.
STAND OUT
Take extra steps to make sure that you stand out among the crowd. Go above and beyond what is expected of you. Volunteer for assignments and projects that may be outside of your typical job requirements. Use your down time to help your co-workers finish tasks that they may be struggling with. Find ways that you can be the 'go to person' with certain aspects of your company. The more valuable you make yourself, the more likely management is to notice you and your effort.
