You’ve finally landed the career opportunity you were looking for and you have been working hard to show that you’re a quality worker that’s a valuable asset to the team. When you first land a new job, it’s natural to settle down, get comfortable and not put all your focus on immediately climbing the company ladder. However, at some point, you’re going to want to start thinking about the next step career-wise.
Taking steps to advance your career isn’t something you want to be too relaxed about. Smart workers know that the next opportunity might be right around the corner, and it’s up to them to be prepared for it. Here are the most effective ways of placing your career on the fast track for advancement.
Know What You Want
Before you set your sights on advancing your career, make sure you’re firm about what it is you’re looking for. Having a set of well-defined goals is the first step to building your career roadmap. Ask yourself what you want the next step to be, and where you want to be in one, three, or five years down the road.
Build a Professional Network
It’s been said before, but it deserves repeating – networking is the number one way of furthering your career. Building a network is essential, and not that difficult to do – even for introverts. Start by talking to your friends and family about your career goals, then build profiles on professional networking sites and attend industry related events in your field.
Toot Your Own Horn
Don’t wait for your employer to notice your hard work and offer up the advancement opportunity that you know you deserve. Speak up about your accomplishments, vocalize your worth and make the first move when a position you’re interested in becomes available in the company.
Only Pursue Opportunities That Help You Reach Your Goals
Too many people jump at any opportunity that comes their way, thinking that it has to be better than where they are now. The problem with this is that it can sidetrack you from your career goals, and possibly even stall your professional growth. Think carefully before accepting any new opportunity and only say ‘yes’ to ones that will help bring you one step closer to where you want to be.
Don’t Be Afraid To Take a Few Risks
Finally, don’t be afraid to take a risk. What’s the worst thing that can happen if you put yourself out there and apply for a job, take a professional development course or take the initiative to form new professional contacts? Opportunity doesn’t always fall into your lap, so get out there and reach for it.
Connect with a Staffing Agency That Connects You with Opportunities, Like Top Notch Personnel!
When you’re looking for the next great career opportunity, let Top Notch Personnel help connect you. We provide professional staffing services that place top candidates with the exceptional opportunities they’re looking for. Contact us today and we’ll talk about your new career.
