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When you start your career, it can feel like everything is happening to you and not because of you. After all, you’re just getting started in your job and trying to prove that you have what it takes to take on more responsibility, get a promotion, and continue climbing the ladder. If you’re reading this now, you feel stuck somewhere along the way. Whatever the case, if your career isn’t moving as you want it to, you can invest in yourself and take proactive steps toward improving it.
Set performance goals for the year
When you are first starting in any new role, it can be easy to get distracted by everything that is going on around you. It can be easy to get caught up in the daily grind and lose sight of the big picture. If this sounds like you, make sure you set some performance goals for the year that you can use as a reminder to keep your eye on the prize. Whether you want to increase your sales numbers or improve your client retention rate, setting goals for the year can be a great way to push yourself to improve continually.
Network, network, network
Networking is a great way to build relationships with people who can help advance your career. While you may not have control over who you report to, you have complete control over who you spend time with and who you allow into your network. For example, if you feel stuck or like there are no opportunities for promotion at your current company, start by asking yourself who you know who works at another company. If you have connections in other companies, they can discuss your issues with you and even help you find a better position elsewhere.
Build a portfolio of work
If you’re currently in a role where you aren’t allowed to take on new projects, it is time to start building a portfolio of work showcasing your skills and abilities. Most industries require people to have a certain level of work experience before being promoted to a different management level. If you need more work experience to move up to the next level, start by identifying what types of projects you can work on at your current job or outside work to add to your portfolio.
Get an education via online courses
If you are feeling stuck, one of the best ways to invest in your career is to get an education that will help you gain new skills and advance in your field. One way to do this is by enrolling in a low-cost online course to help you achieve the skills needed for a more advanced role in your field.
Get careers advice from the professionals
Another great way to invest in your career is to get advice from business professionals. You can do this by attending a workshop or event hosted by a professional or by contacting experienced careers development advisors such as Jeffrey Bauza for help online.
Take some time to think about where you want to be next
If you’ve been stuck with your career, it might be a sign that it is time to consider changing. While it can be scary to make a career change, it can also be incredibly beneficial. Switching to a new industry or company or even buying a franchise can provide you with a fresh perspective, new challenges to overcome, and a better opportunity to advance your career. Changing jobs could be a life-changing decision no matter how late in your life and career.
