Every now and then, there is the need to do a career audit. So are you stuck or making progress? It becomes an issue when you start to make comparisons. When a colleague seems to making more impact, moving up the career ladder, you may think you are stuck in a rut and making no progress.
Don’t panic, you can get back on track again. Taking the next big step in your career may look tasking, but remember that the minor things can set you up for massive success. The following are 10 simple things to do that have a big impact on your career:
1.Dine with your superiors
Let your superior colleagues mentor you. They are more accomplished and experienced. If you need a promotion, guidance and direction on your next move? They can help you. Build healthy relationships with them. See that you get along with your superiors so you can learn from them and they can recommend you when the need arises.
2. Always document your wins
Don’t think you would remember all your wins. You need to put them all into paper whether big or small. That way you know what you have to offer. When you will need to refer to your wins/accomplishments, you can confidently ask for promotions, raise or new responsibilities.
3. Know other teams
Don’t be stuck in your department. Get to know other teams in other departments. This opens doors for opportunities, learning new skills or developing new passions. You get to build your people’s skills which is very important in getting along in the workplace. Learn how to compliment people and mean it.
4. Hone your writing skills
Even if your job does not require writing, that is skill that needs to be developed. When you become a better writer, you become comfortable sending sensitive emails, making presentations and writing compelling reports. People would notice your writing and trust you with urgent tasks.
5. Speak up at meetings
If you voice your ideas and opinions in meetings, you become unforgettable especially when they are valid and good. Speaking up also boosts your confidence. There are chances that you may feel your ideas do not measure up, but other people may also feel same. Speak up to be visible and understood.
6. Challenge yourself
One of the reason for career advancement is boredom. Find time to create challenging situations where you can brainstorm solutions. Reach out to a new person in your industry, change your work routine or develop your problem solving abilities.
7. Assess yourself
There are many personality test tools to take online. Get to know yourself well, your strengths and weaknesses so you know how to make them work to your advantage.
8. Research your own company
You may have worked in your company for few or more years but you still need to stay updated with latest developments. Find out what your company’s working on and what it offers. Check its website and identify areas you don’t know about and seek answers from people who know.