A Rolling Stone Gathers No Moss
The title of this post is a famous adage that should be exemplified by each and every one of you. It's no good to sit still in your life - work is NO exception.
Self-reflection is the most important aspect of furthering yourself as a person and in your career. We should all try to live up to our potential as citizens of this planet. To do that, we have to aim to get ahead at some point.
What's important is to recognize where your passions and strengths are hidden inside you and then spend your time advancing them. Blindly following the upward path has lead some to find great dissatisfaction.
Even though you know you want to get ahead, situations arise that can sometimes prevent you from getting there. People get comfortable and stop trying, or they think that trying will not make a difference.
Here's a list to help you in your path to career enlightenment and happiness:
1) Identify you area of interest.
Make a list of your talents and interests and applying the list to the kinds of work you want to perform in your new job.
2) Communication your desires.
Managers aren't mind readers, so be explicit with your career aspirations as you move up
3) Don't ask too soon.
You need to be a proven commodity at the job you were hired to do first before asking for a raise or promotion.
4) Be a team player.
Understand the roles of the others on your team as much as possible.
5) Network.
Make a list of all the people you count on for success and make sure they believe in your ability to contribute
6) Seek out a mentor.
You can learn a lot from people who have mastered the career you aspire to.
7) Develop additional skills.
Take inventory of what you can bring to the table and what new tools you'll need to acquire.
8) Don't let money motivate you.
Too often we judge things based solely on money and responsibility.
9) Ask for feedback.
Know how your work is being evaluated and get your goals and evaluation in writing.
10) Do it again!
Remember that this career change need not be your last.
