You Energizing Your Career
While I was driving in the car the other day what I thought was mindless background conversation on the radio turned out to be the catalyst for this week’s article. The commentator was giving advice to job hunters. She said, during an interview make sure to use the word “you” several times. You, apparently, is one of the predominant words in the English language. Our ears are used to hearing it and we react favorably when we hear it. That tidbit of information started my wheels turning. If “you” is an important word in the interview process, why shouldn’t you ask yourself questions about how to energize yourself once you are in your career?
I have come up with a checklist of ten considerations to help you energize your career.
- Reassess your career path
Are you headed in a direction that is fulfilling both personally and professionally?
Is it time for a change? Do you need a mentor? Do you have room to grow or are
you at a plateau?
- Update your portfolio
Are you keeping accurate accounts of your successes? Is your account current?
You need to be ready at a moments notice to show your value to the company.
- Network
Summer is an excellent time to mingle at social occasions. Make sure your business cards reflect your latest position. Keep them available. Remember, many deals are consummated on the golf course. You can have fun and advance your career.
- Seek professional development opportunities
What type of training does your company offer? Do you look for opportunities to sharpen your skills? You are in charge of your professional development.
- Online training
Have you checked out online training in your industry? Many companies and universities are offering courses online for you to sharpen your skills and/or get new business certifications.
- Travel or become familiar with another language
Business is a global marketplace. The more diverse you are the more opportunities exist for you in the workplace. Expand your world.
- Health Assessment
You require periodic health checks much like your automobile. A tune up is an opportunity to make sure you are in proper running order. You do that for your car, why not do the same for yourself.
- Read local papers
You can keep your hand on the pulse of the community by reading local papers either online or in paper form. Business news is everywhere but you have to look for it. Remember the movie “Working Girl” back in the 80’s with Harrison Ford and Melanie Griffith. Rent a copy if you have not seen it. She used articles in the paper to further her career.
- Volunteer
You step out of yourself when you volunteer. Giving to others is a healthy pursuit as well as an opportunity to meet other people. You may find another career through volunteering or enhance the career you are in.
- Plan for Retirement
You are never too young or too old to set goals. Retirement planning is goal setting. You need to know where you are going and plan how to get there.
If you would like to read more about goal setting or ways to revamp your career, stop by the APLS Online store.
