Navigating the career maze isn’t just about the number of hours you clock in or the promotions you snag.

It’s about intention, growth, and balance.

It’s time to stop floating and start steering your career in the direction you want it to go.

How to progress your career

1. Set clear career goals

Know where you’re headed.

Ever heard of the saying, “If you don’t know where you’re going, any road will take you there?”

It’s particularly apt for career growth.

Without a clear vision of where you want to be, it’s easy to drift aimlessly from one job to another.

Here’s what you can do:

Visualise Your Future: Think about where you want to be in 5, 10, or 15 years. Do you see yourself leading a team, launching your own venture, or mastering a particular skill?
Break It Down: Once you have a clear vision, break it down into smaller milestones. This can be in the form of acquiring certain skills, reaching specific job titles, or achieving particular accomplishments.
Review Regularly: Set aside time every month or quarter to review your goals. Adjust as needed based on your experiences and changing aspirations.

2. Never stop learning

Upskilling is the new normal.

The job landscape is evolving at lightning speed. What’s relevant today might be obsolete tomorrow.

Staying updated is not just about job security; it’s about career advancement.

Here’s your action plan:

Online Courses: Platforms like Coursera, Udemy, and LinkedIn Learning offer courses on nearly every imaginable topic. Dedicate a few hours each week to learn something new.
Workshops & Seminars: These offer a chance to learn in a more interactive environment and can also be fantastic networking opportunities.
Read Widely: Books, articles, journals – there’s a wealth of knowledge out there. Stay curious and informed.

3. Seek mentorship and network

Your network is your net worth.

Mentors can offer invaluable insights, while a robust network can open doors you didn’t know existed.

Identify Potential Mentors: Look for individuals who have achieved what you aspire to. It could be someone in your company, industry, or even outside of it.
Networking Events: Attend industry conferences, seminars, and workshops. Engage with peers, ask questions, and exchange contact information.
Online Platforms: LinkedIn can be a goldmine. Engage with content, join industry-specific groups, and initiate conversations.

4. Volunteer and gain experience

Experience beyond the pay.

While compensation is essential, some experiences are priceless.

Volunteering can provide you with skills, insights, and connections that a regular job might not offer.

Look for Opportunities: Check platforms like VolunteerMatch or local community boards.
Utilise Your Skills: Offer your professional skills. If you’re a marketer, help a non-profit with their campaigns. If you’re a coder, build a website for a local charity.

5. Work-life balance

Thrive, don’t just survive.

Burnout is not a myth.

It’s a glaring reality in today’s high-pressure work environment.

A well-balanced life isn’t just beneficial for your mental and physical health; it can enhance your productivity and creativity.

Set Boundaries: It’s essential to delineate work time from personal time. This might mean turning off work emails after a certain hour or dedicating weekends to family and hobbies.
Take Breaks: Short breaks during work can boost creativity and productivity. It can be as simple as a 10-minute walk or some stretching exercises.
Pursue Hobbies: Engaging in activities you love can be a fantastic stress buster. Whether it’s painting, reading, or playing a sport, make time for what makes you happy.

Career progression is a journey, not a sprint.

It’s about making intentional choices, continuously learning, and finding balance.

About the author

Rob Chatfield joined Astute in May 2023 as a Talent Specialist.

Rob helps clients across the Nuclear energy sector find and place high-calibre candidates.

If you enjoyed his blog “How to progress your career” connect with Rob on LinkedIn.

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