Posted June 28th, 2017
By Kris Powers
Last month we published a blog on the importance of Career Planning. We hope that you took a few moments to start the process of developing a career plan for yourself. Doing so can help you manage potential learning opportunities as well as identify ways to grow your professional development.
If you haven’t started your career plan, now is a great time to evaluate your interests, values, and skill sets. Revisit our blog to identify steps to take in this important process. Once you’ve had some time to think about your career goals, jot down what it will take to get you there. Include in this exercise an evaluation of where you could use additional training or experience and brainstorm ways to get what you need. Ed4Career offers hundreds of career-training and skill enhancement courses and our online course format makes it easy to fit learning into your busy schedule. Check us out today!
If you are currently employed, even if it’s not in your ideal field, use this time to:
· Get the experience you need. Try to gain as much experience as possible in your current position. This may include taking on additional projects at work to gain invaluable training in areas you may be lacking.
· Make yourself indispensable. Do the best job that you can, and go above and beyond at every opportunity. Making yourself known for stellar job performance can help ensure that you are not overlooked for promotions within your organization.
· Network, network, network. Many times, it truly is who you know. Work on your networking skills and participate in groups and organizations that are relevant to your career aspirations. You never know when you might connect with someone who can help you.
· Find a mentor. A mentor can help you learn what is required in your dream job, and help motivate you to succeed in reaching your career objectives.
· Training. In today’s competitive market, it’s important to keep up to date with the latest training. Seek out classes and webinars that will help you stay abreast of the latest learning in your field.
· Transfers and lateral moves. If you feel you are stagnating in your current position, and there appears to be little chance for advancement, ask for a transfer. Even if it’s a lateral move, you will gain additional experience.
Taking Charge of your Career Path
Career planning is essential for success. To progress in your career and achieve your goals you will need to plan forward and work on continuously developing your skill set. You will also need to actively pursue professional development opportunities to ensure that you gain the relevant work experience needed to stay on top of your field. Mapping out the process will allow you to track your progression and motivate you to stay on track.
Explore Ed4Career’s online course catalog today. Many of our courses offer paths to certification, and the skills and knowledge you gain will be an asset to any resume. We wish you the best in reaching your career goals!
