Career development

60 posts

How can any of us resist the urge to reinvent ourselves with the turning of the calendar? Jump on the bandwagonâthere's plenty of room here among the hopeful, the determined, and the motivated.

Do Some Inner Exploration

Man reflects on his career in the new year

First, consider this a fresh start for you. What are you seeking as you dream about your next career opportunity? Some enticing ideas that often appear in my initial conversations with clients include:

Autonomy: The freedom to embark on creative projects, to dictate your own time, to put your attention where you're drawn.
Meaning: At the end of the day, knowing that where you're spending your time matches your values at a basic level.
Connection: Working alongside people who get you, who respect you, who say "thanks" every now and then.
Engagement: Dialing into what you're doing, using your brain, your intuition, and your other talents.

All of these possibilities are compelling, but before you press down on the gas pedal and drive out of where you are right now, ask yourself whether it's your environment that's creating the lack of these qualities, the boundaries (or lack thereof) that you put in place, or possibly the underlying ideas you have about yourself and your own worth and power.

Usually, it's a combination of all of these factors, and if you can pull apart the company, your boss, your co-workers, and other dimensions of your environment which you're unconsciously creating by playing out old scripts, then you're ready to move to the next phase of the process.

Articulate The Most Important Qualities You Want

Woman writes down her career goals for the new year

Make a list of what you want in your new career. Imagine that you're single and you're searching for a new romantic partner. Sit down and write a list of 10-15 qualities you're seeking.

Next, get very specific about three more categories:

Where do you want to be working geographically?
What are some target companies you'd like to research?
What are the specific job titles that you're seeking?

Reach Out And Build Your Sphere Of Connections

Man reaches out to and reconnects with his professional network in the new year

Strategically expand your circle to be in purposeful conversation with people who can offer intel on the companies and positions on your list.

For those of you who cringe at the idea of asking for help (particularly when it seems like you're almost using people), if you've been networking the right way all along, it shouldn't feel uncomfortable. Networking, maintaining, and building your professional connections is about providing value. When you connect with someone on LinkedIn, you shouldn't ask for their help right away. Establish a relationship first. Once you do that, they'll be more than willing to help you in your career because they know you'd do the same for them.

Whatever you want out of life and your career, you can accomplish. A year from now, you really can be in a completely different spot, one that resonates more deeply for you. So, what are you waiting for? Start making changes today!

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This article was originally published at an earlier date.

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New Year, New Career, New You

5 Career Questions To Ask Yourself This New Year

The new year is here! For many of us, January is the perfect time to reflect on our lives and set new goals, hoping to become better versions of ourselves. Most people make personal resolutions, like getting in shape, quitting smoking/drinking, or learning a new language. But, what about career resolutions?

A career resolution is exactly what it sounds like: a resolution for your career intended to help you grow into a better professional. At Work It Daily, we believe that you need to work on your career every day (yes, you do, in fact, need to "work it daily"). So, everyone should make a career resolution or two along with those other ambitious resolutions. They can be little things like learning a new skill or growing your professional network, or bigger goals like landing a promotion or getting a new job.

But how do you know what kind of career resolutions to make?

You can begin by asking yourself, "Am I where I want to be in my career?" If your answer is "no," you need to take a closer look at your career goals.

Here are five more career questions you should be asking yourself this new year to figure out how to grow your career and become the professional you know you can be:

1. Am I Proud Of My Job Title?

Man reflecting on his career and considering a change

You could be a janitor or a neurosurgeon, it doesn't matter. If you aren't proud of what you do for a living, there's something missing: passion.

Career burnout is real, but sometimes it's deeper than that. Our passion at 25 won't necessarily be our passion at 40. And that's okay.

When we are passionate about what we do, we are proud, because we are doing what we think is important, what we love doing. We are adding value to and making a difference in this crazy worldâin a small, but significant way.

Every job is important. No matter what your job title is, if you aren't proud of it, you should absolutely change that. Identify that one problem you want to find a solution to, and go after it. What are you waiting for?

Remember: The only bad job is the one you aren't passionate about.

2. Do I Feel Secure In My Career?

Young woman thinking about her career and wondering if her job is secure

This is a bit different from job security. Actually, job security doesn't exist. Every job is temporary. Think you can stay in the same job for decades and then retire? Think again.

So, what does it mean to feel secure in our careers?

Well, when we believe as professionals we can add value wherever we are.

You are a business-of-one. A company won't want to invest in you if they don't know the kinds of services you provide, the kind of value you could add to the organization, and the problem you could solve for them. Here are some examples of questions that will help you determine if you're secure in your career:

Are you adding value at your current job?
Are you honing your skills, expanding your network, and building your personal brand?
Do you feel confident that if you lost your job, you'd be able to find a comparable one in the same field?
Do you feel confident you'd be able to demonstrate to potential employers how you add value?

Since every job is temporary, it's extremely important to constantly work on our careers and ask ourselves these questions frequently so we always feel secure in our businesses-of-one.

3. Will I Be Able To Achieve Wealth?

Young man thinking about how to build wealth in his career

When most people think of "wealth," they think of dollar signs and anything that you can attach a monetary value to. Our jobs help us build wealth. We're not going to tell you that money isn't important. Of course it is! It allows you to live the life you want to live. In many ways, money equals freedom.

But the truth is, there are other forms of wealth that are more important that you can't attach any monetary value to.

Real wealth comes in the form of family, friends, hobbies, experiences, knowledge, and community. If you don't have these things, money will never fill that void.

So, is your career allowing you to build this type of wealth? The intangible kind? Or are your relationships suffering because of your job? Is your work-life balance nonexistent? Do you have any time to pursue hobbies, learn, or volunteer?

Your career should never inhibit you from achieving real wealth. The best job isn't the one that pays the most. It's the one that pays the bills and gives you enough time to live, too.

4. Do I Have Any Regrets?

Professional woman on laptop thinking about the regrets she has in her career

Just asking ourselves this question can be difficult, because maybe we don't want to know the answer. Acknowledging that you regret something in your life is the first step to making a change. Guess what? There's still time to chase your dreams!

If you do have regrets, that doesn't mean you haven't been a successful professional. That also doesn't mean you haven't had a good career. You could be the most successful person, but if you never got up the courage to start that business, make that career change, or go back to school, you'll most likely think, "What if?" for the rest of your life.

You'll never know if you don't try. Don't be afraid of failure. Life is just one big experiment, and experiments never fail.

And even if you do "fail," that's an incredibly more valuable experience than waiting out the clock on a mediocre career. So, don't give up on your dreams just yet.

5. Can I Reach My Full Potential In This Role? In This Career?

Confused man wondering if he can reach his full potential in his current career

When we feel like we have more to contribute to society, that's a sign we haven't yet reached our full potential. Do you feel like you're wasting your potential at your current job? Do you think you'd reach your full potential in another career?

Really think about what you want your professional legacy to be. It's a lot harder to get up in the morning when you don't find fulfillment in your work. When it comes time for you to retire, are you going to look back on your career and feel like you could have accomplished much, much more with those 50 years?

Everyone has unique gifts, skills, and expertise. When we focus on developing ourselves as individuals, as businesses-of-one, it's a lot easier to share those things with the world. Give yourself a chance to reach your full potential. You may be surprised by what you can accomplish.

Before you get back into the same routine at work this year, we hope you take a few minutes to ask yourself these career questions. Listen carefully to how you answer them. You may need to make a career resolution or two.

Need more help with your career?

We'd love it if you signed up for Work It Daily's Event Subscription! Get your career questions answered in our next live event!

This article was originally published at an earlier date.

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5 Career Questions To Ask Yourself This …

How To Recession-Proof Your Career In 2023

Are anyone worried you wonât property a job in the present job market? Or are people worried your current part might be eliminated at some sort of momentâs notice? If therefore, we have a coaching series for you to help check out!

In each of our latest live class, weâll educate you on how to remain employable and relevant inside the job market through these tough times.

We almost all remember 2008. It has been a challenging coming back numerous. Now, weâre painfully returning to the idea of residing through another recession.

With mass layoffs, hiring freezes, and furloughs happening due to financial influences, many are questioning this security and stability of the futures. You may actually be thinking about the relaxing question, âAm I subsequent? â

Inside our 4-week class, youâll learn what you require to fag order towards secure opportunities even while in hard times.

You should take this particular training if:

Youâre fearful regarding your future
Youâre worried nobody will certainly hire you
Youâre unsure showing exactly how to recession-proof your career

Join our CEO, M. T. O'Donnell, and Movie director of Training Development and Coaching, Christina Burgio, with regard to this live event collection on Wednesdays at twelve pm ET from The month of january 4th-25th.

CAN'T ATTEND RESIDE? That's alright. You'll have entry to often the recording and the workbook following the session!

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How To Recession-Proof Your Career In 2023

Everyone has heard of New Year's resolutions. You know, those promises that we make to ourselves about things that we'll do better in the year ahead. Sometimes these resolutions work, while other times we end up with gym memberships we never use!

But, have you ever heard of a career resolution? It's actually the same thing as a New Year's resolution, only career-focused.

However, with something as important as a career, you don't want to break these resolutions. That's why it's important to keep these goals manageable.

Here are four simple career resolutions that are easy to stick to and achieve:

Be Self-Aware Of Where You Stand In Your Career

Happy woman works toward her career goals

Being honest and self-aware of where you are in your career is the most important step in making strong career resolutions. If your career is going nowhere and you're unhappy, then it may be time to consider a career change, which will take you down a different path entirely.

But if you're happy and in good standing with your career, it's a lot easier to set goals for the year, and build out a long-term career plan.

Find A Way To Grow Your Career

Smiling man writes down his career goals and resolutions on his laptop

Career growth is a very broad spectrum that means something different to everyone. It could be something as simple as improving on a weakness or building on a strength. It could also be learning a new skill or taking on additional responsibilities at work.

On a larger level, it could be seeking a promotion or moving into a leadership role.

Whatever the goal is, make sure it includes growing professionally. The worst thing that you can do is stay the same! If you're not growing your career, you're dyingâand becoming a lot less valuable to your company. There are always ways to upskill!

Better Serve Your Professional Network

With current colleagues, former colleagues, and other professional acquaintances, you've probably built a solid professional network through the years. A strong professional network can really come in handy if you lose your job or are looking to make a career change. However, you shouldn't just rely on your network when you're in need!

It's important to find ways to offer value to your network. This could include checking in with members of your network from time to time. Exchange messages on LinkedIn to see how they're doing or share relevant content of interest.

If you can help someone in your network going through a career challenge, you should!

Maintaining a strong professional network is like an investment. If you want it to pay off, you have to put some time into it and be consistent.

Take Care Of Yourself

Working on your career is hard work! It's okay to be selfish sometimes.

Whether you're working to grow your career or looking for a new job, it's important to find balance.

Your family and health always come first, so make sure your career goals don't interfere with that. If you want to set aside time during the week to work on your career that's fine, but don't miss an important family events or milestones.

Don't let your career goals get in the way of your health goals. Go to the gym, take a walk, or go for a jog. Balance is key to maintaining healthy career and life goals. Sometimes you just need to adjust that balance as you go.

Need help accomplishing your career resolutions?

We'd love it if you signed up for Work It Daily's Event Subscription! Get your career questions answered in our next live event!

This article was originally published at an earlier date.

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4 Simple Career Resolutions For 2023

How To Expand Your Network For Job Search Success

Networking is vital to job search success. Networking can lead to referrals, identifying jobs that aren't yet posted, and securing informational interviews. They can also lead to future professional references.

These results can give you a competitive advantage and help you progress toward your career goal. Networking platforms like LinkedIn and Twitter are tools that can help you effectively expand your network. Here's how...

Building Your Social Network

Online or offline, the goal of networking is to build relationships. Every social networking platform offers some means of connecting with new people. Interact with others and share posts that are thoughtful and relevant to your field. Engage your audience by seeking input and sharing your thoughts or review of industry-related topics.

Share these topics and post information on your own profile for your audience, but also get involved in groups on LinkedIn or chats on Twitter. There are thousands of chats and groups for a wide variety of industries, specialties, or job searching in general. Do some exploring and request to join the group or start following the Twitter chat.

In my experience, people are very receptive to newcomers on these interactive forums. These forums can be a great way to meet new people. After participating, you can begin to follow or request a connection with individual contributors. Depending on your location, there may be the possibility of meeting your connections in person. The social network is a platform to build these relationships and make that in-person connection.

It Takes Time To Build A Network

Woman builds professional network at a business networking event

Patience...patience...patience! All good things take time.

Maintain a positive attitude and be flexible. Those two skills can save you from many future career headaches. Not everyone will be willing to connect. Remember that networking is a two-way street. Prioritize your connections based on who has a job you'd love to do, or who works for one of your target employers, and focus your efforts strategically.

Always personalize connection messages to new people on sites like LinkedIn to let the potential contact know you're not arbitrarily clicking every "Connect" button in your suggested contacts. Keep connection messages brief and to the point. I'd recommend not going into personal detail this early on or putting potential connections on the spot; just invite them to be a connection or offer your email address as a point of contact.

You can say something as simple as, "Hi Jane, I've enjoyed following your contributions to XYZ Group and agreed with your review of the Acme Co article you posted. I am also a (insert job title here) and would like to connect with you. Please let me know if I can be of any help. Thanks."

A short and simple message with a personal reference and offer to help shows that you are trying to form a mutually beneficial relationship.

Gaining Credibility

Man on phone builds his professional network

By building relationships you can become a resource on certain topics for your network. Gaining credibility takes time, but let the process happen naturally. Conduct research, search for best practices, gain more experience, and get in contact with people that share their experience.

This is where actively participating in Twitter chats or LinkedIn groups can help build your knowledge. Sharing ideas with others that are passionate about their field can keep you motivated and engaged in your line of work. After developing these relationships, opportunities can arise off-screen as wellâassisting in a volunteer effort that was coordinated online or attending a networking event, speaking event, or job club that was promoted online. Read the information about the events your network is posting and try to commit to going when your schedule permits.

Impress Hiring Managers That May Google You

A recruiter on her computer does research on a potential job candidate

A hiring manager may look you up on Google at some point in the job search process. If you actively network across platforms such as LinkedIn or Twitter, or attend events in person, your Google search results page may show these stories and profiles.

Any site you join for professional networking purposes should serve as a complement to your resume. That means whether you post blogs, tweets, or share information on LinkedIn, all your content should be professional and error-free. These can validate your candidacy and make you stand out among the competition.

As you start networking, you'll learn more about your field, gain skills, and build confidence. Build relationships and help others in your search. Use social networking for job search success and foster relationships that can help you discover your next opportunity.

Need more help with your job search?

We'd love it if you signed up for Work It Daily's Event Subscription! Get your career questions answered in our next live event!

This article was originally published at an earlier date.

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How To Expand Your Network For Job …

3 Career Resolutions Youâll Need To Succeed In 2023

Are you currently afraid of typically the thought that youâll enter in the new year along with no success in your own career goals? Have you been uncertain of what you want to because of obtain noticed in your career efforts today? Do an individual have little to simply no success in getting discovered by employers? If therefore, you're in the proper place!

Each year, millions of people create New Year's resolutions around hopes to drive a good improvement. While there are usually different types of settlements you can choose to be able to implement, your career ought to be heavily considered.

Research has identified that people who have a tendency to make these promises are ten-times more probably to reach their objectives than people who donât create resolutions for on their own. The best way for you to get ready for your career achievement inside the new year is usually to develop these file sizes in advance!

In this training, youâll learn:

Why itâs thus important to get resolutions on place for your career development
How you can pinpoint effective career answers that will get anyone noticed while you enter this new year
The modern job research strategy you need to help implement that will push motivation

Join the CEO, J. T. O'Donnell, and Director of Coaching Development & Coaching, Christina Burgio, for this survive event on Wednesday, January 21st at 12 pm hours ET.

CAN'T ATTEND SURVIVE? That's ok. You'll have entry to often the recording and the workbook following the session!

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3 Career Resolutions Youâll Need To Succeed …

4 Things To Know About Negotiating Salary In 2023 (And Beyond)

Salary negotiations can be tricky, but there's no escaping them. At some point in your career, whether you're applying for a job or angling for a promotion, you'll find yourself in the middle of a salary negotiation.

These conversations don't have to be uncomfortable. Like anything in life, knowledge and preparation can make all the difference. As an employee, if you know your value and you can back it up with quantifiable results, you can make a compelling case during your salary negotiations.

However, there are always everchanging trends and things that job seekers should be on the lookout for as they prepare to negotiate their salary.

The Economy Can Change In A Heartbeat

Businesspeople where masks during COVID-19

This is an important factor to remember and 2020 was a good example of how quickly the economy can change. As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic shutting down businesses and changing business models, many companies were forced to lay off employees.

With the availability of vaccines in 2021, businesses started to reopen but the market is completely different. For example, industries impacted significantly by the pandemic such as restaurants, retail, hospitality, and seasonal jobs are struggling to fill jobs and are raising wages to entice job seekers to work for them.

On the other hand, many employees got a taste of remote work in 2020, so the demand for remote jobs is on the rise. A recent FlexJobs survey found that after the pandemic, 65% of people still want to work remotely full time, and another 33% prefer a hybrid work arrangement where they split their time on the clock between the office and home.

Many in-demand industries like tech & software, cybersecurity, e-commerce, gaming, and telemedicine are all jobs that lend themselves to remote work and the market for such roles will be extra competitive. If you find yourself looking for a job in one of these industries, or other in-demand industries, you may be going up against people who have very similar skill sets.

This could significantly impact your value, especially if you live in a market where there are more qualified people with the same skill sets than available jobs. In these cases, you'll have to go the extra mile to stand out, and you could still be looking at a small salary reduction.

But, on the opposite end of the spectrum, if you live in a market where your skills are in demand and there's not much competition, you may be able to use that to your advantage during salary negotiations.

Salary largely depends on experience, location, and economic conditions. All of these things can be very fluid and that's why doing research is so important.

Speaking of research...

Never Stop Doing Research

Salary research isn't just limited to those looking for work. It's something that all professionals should do.

Even if things are going well with your job, and you're not necessarily in the market for a salary increase, it's still a good idea to check the market sometimes to see what the average salary for your position is at any point in time.

The need for consistent salary research is even more important in the post-pandemic economy where there are so many fluctuations in the market. Every industry was impacted differently by COVID-19 and this will ultimately play a role in salary increases that companies offer current employees and salaries offered to new employees.

According to research published on the Society for Human Resource Management website, company leaders were expected to increase compensation in 2021 by between 2.6% and 3%, but industries will continue to be affected unevenly, just as they were in 2020.

There are free resources available that can give some valuable information about job salaries. Glassdoor has a salary calculator that allows professionals to enter information about their current career, job experience, and market to give estimated market value.

The more information you have about your value, the more comfortable you'll feel about negotiating salary. It's also important to remember that salary is only one part of the equation. Many companies offer strong employee benefits packages that include good health insurance and retirement benefits, along with generous paid time off and other perks.

Salaries Are Always Changing

An employee looks over their paycheck after successfully negotiating a higher salary

Just because you make a certain salary today doesn't mean that it's going to stay that way or increase. Job responsibilities and requirements can change, and the best employees are the ones who are usually a step ahead and show a willingness to be flexible.

Take a step back once in a while and think about how your job is changing. Acquire the necessary skill sets that you need to stay ahead, and take time to find ways to go the extra mile and expand your job responsibilities. By doing this, you're not only growing within your job position, but you could be setting yourself up to move up within the company.

These characteristics will prepare you for not only being able to justify your salary but give you some leverage in salary negotiations if you're seeking a salary increase.

Salary And Career Planning Go Hand In Hand

An employee celebrates getting good career news at work

Salary increases don't typically just happen by accident. They're usually a result of hard work and continued career growth. From the moment you start a job, you should always be thinking about ways to not only meet expectations but exceed them.

By putting together a career map, you can plan out your goals and strategies for gradually increasing your value as an employee. As you check off these accomplishments, you can get a sense of whether you're on schedule, or even ahead of schedule, to reach certain career milestones.

Keeping track of these milestones is important because it can help determine the right time to bring up the topic of salary and bolster your case during negotiations. Remember, you're a business-of-one, and it's important to always know the value that you provide to your employer.

Some salary negotiation strategies will never change, but it's going to be important to keep track of post-pandemic trends and their impacts on salary, at least for the immediate future.

Need more help with salary negotiations?

We'd love it if you signed up for Work It Daily's Event Subscription! Get your career questions answered in our next live event!

This article was originally published at an earlier date.

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4 Things To Know About Negotiating Salary …

How To Successfully Change Careers After A Layoff

For most workers, being laid off or furloughed is a scary thought, and, unfortunately, this scary thought became a reality for many professionals who had their jobs impacted by COVID-19 and the recession that followed. However, for some, losing their job is the push they need to make a career change.

It's not as crazy as it sounds!

Some people need a change but are too afraid to make one, and losing their job is the perfect opportunity to do so. In addition, many workers who lost their jobs due to the COVID-19 crisis may find it difficult to get back into the industries they were working in.

Making a career change isn't easy, but with an organized approach, it can be done successfully. It won't happen overnight, but with patience and commitment, you can ultimately end up in a better place.

Here's what you need to know about the career change process as you embark on the job hunt after a layoff...

Commit To A Career Change Plan

Before committing to a career change, make sure you're ready to close the door on your current career.

A career change should not be an impulse decision or strictly driven by the trauma of a layoff. So, it's important to take some time to really think things over.

But if your decision comes from a prolonged period of career unhappiness, then the time may be right.

Identify the new industry that you're looking to get into and then create an interview bucket list of 10-12 companies where you would like to work. Take a self-inventory of yourself and identify the transferable skills you possess that would also apply well to this new industry. Identify where you need to upskill.

What skills are you missing for this new position? Come up with a plan for gaining these skills. Attend training courses, workshops, classes, or certification opportunities.

Changing Careers Is About Who You Know

Man talks to a colleague about making a career change

Now that you've drafted a career change plan, the real challenge begins: building your network.

When applying to a new industry, it's not enough to just apply online and pray that you'll get an interview. You have to put the work in.

Go to the company's website or LinkedIn account to identify the human resources manager and the company's key players. Try to make an actual connection. Tap into your current network to see if you already know someone working at the company or have a friend who knows a current employee.

Use any connection you make to learn more about the company and to tell your career storyâwhere you've been, and why you are choosing to change careers. Any connection that you make is a foot in the door.

This is a much more efficient way to conduct a job search, rather than just applying for every online job posting (spraying and praying). Most resumes don't even make it past the applicant tracking system (ATS).

In addition to trying to secure an interview, putting in this work will also help you build networking skills and expand your professional network. No matter where you are in your career, it always pays to network. This would also be a good time to update your LinkedIn profile, too.

Ease Your Way To Your Dream Job

Young professional moves into her new office after getting a new job

What if you could get a job at the company you want to work for, just not in the position that you wanted?

That would actually be a career victory. When it comes to career changes, very rarely can you just switch lanes and land your dream job. Sometimes you need to ease your way in.

If you're struggling to get the position you want within a certain company, research other positions at that company to see if there are any positions that better fit your current skill sets. If there is, apply for that position. That way you at least get a job at the company.

From there, you can figure out a way to gain the skills that you need, so that you can one day move into your dream position.

Beware! Career Changes Come With Salary Implications

Confused businessman ponders whether or not he should take a cut in salary

This may be hard to believe, but when it comes to a career change, sometimes salary is the last thing that you think about.

That's because the career change process is so involved. It takes a lot of effort to come up with a plan and eventually secure an interview. Salary considerations are something that gets placed on the temporary back burner.

But if you've reached the point in the process where it's time to discuss salary, you've done something right and don't want things to unravel.

Depending on the type of industry you're going into, you'll be looking at either a salary increase, decrease, or match. It's essential that you do your research about the position and the average salary for such a position in your geographical area. Websites such as Salary.com and Glassdoor can be good resources for this information.

Having this information could be helpful in salary negotiations or, at the very least, mentally prepare you, particularly if you're facing a salary decrease.

It's also important not to lie when asked about your current salary in order to get a higher salary. It never pays to be dishonest.

Being laid off and then deciding to change careers is a lot to take on. If you're organized and committed, you can do it, but you don't have to do it alone!

Need more help making a career change after a layoff?

We'd love it if you signed up for Work It Daily's Event Subscription! Get your career questions answered in our next live event!

This article was originally published at an earlier date.

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How To Successfully Change Careers After A …

6 Ways To Position Yourself For A Promotion

How do you get a promotion? It's a good time to start thinking about growing your career and positioning yourself for one.

Here are six tips to get the promotion you want at work:

1. Under Promise And Over Deliver

Man successfully presents data and works towards getting a promotion

With many companies leaner than they were several years ago, there are probably many internal voids. You want to identify and fill them. We recommend looking at how you can informally be of service.

For example: ask your supervisor or team members how you can step in and support them as well as identify where you see hiccups in efficiency. Approach the appropriate person with a case for how you can step in and help.

At the same time, make sure you do not commit to work you know you cannot complete efficiently and to the best of your ability.

2. Be An Intrapreneur

Man becomes an intrapreneur to get a promotion

An intrapreneur is someone who uses an entrepreneur's mindset, relationships, skills, and behaviors within an organization's four walls to develop new, innovative ways of working, new products, or new services.

Whether you are developing a new corporate social responsibility initiative or a new procedure for onboarding entry-level talent, elicit the support of all key stakeholders, do your homework to set yourself up to succeed, and set clear, mutually agreed-upon criteria for success.

By launching a new venture within your company's four walls, you may just create your new position. And when you succeed, you will have evidence of your leadership experience.

3. Get Your Internal Networking On

Work colleagues network during a meeting

It's important to develop mutually beneficial relationships within your department and team as well as throughout your company. Don't forget to connect with your co-workers, old and new, and continuously try to network with those outside of your immediate office or work environment.

To put yourself in line for such an opportunity as a promotion, set the time to get to know all of your colleagues. Be curious about their work and the opportunities they foresee on the horizon.

4. Balance Short-Term And Long-Term Thinking

This is another important muscle to flex when positioning yourself for a promotion. While it's important to have an eye on your goals so that you stay on top of your chief responsibilities, you also want to pay attention to how your work plays into the bigger picture.

Get clear on your department or organization's one, two, and even five-year goals, and work with your supervisor to make sure that how you are spending your time and energy is moving youâand the companyâin the right direction.

5. Zap Negativity

People want to work with happy people. Andâlet's face itâright now, too many workplaces are seas of persistent complaint.

Senior leaders also want emerging talent who see opportunities rather than obstacles. Not only does a Negative Nelly or Negative Ned kill moral, but she or he also comes across as someone incapable of solving problems and inspiring others toward solutions, which are keys to positioning one's self as an effective leader.

If you want to get that promotion, focus on being positive at work. Your encouraging nature will show your manager you have the right attitude for a leadership position, therefore making you that much closer to getting promoted.

6. Ask

This might sound obvious, but we can't tell you how many people know a position is open in their companies and fail to advocate for themselves or hope that a supervisor will read their minds and make them that offer they can't refuse.

This is particularly important for women.

Men initiate these kinds of conversations about four times as often as women! You don't want to under promise and over deliver forever. Once you know you have laid the foundation for your ask, set a specific day and time to talk to the appropriate person about your aspirations, and make sure you facilitate the conversation in such a way that you are creating a compelling story about what you have achieved in your previous position and what you believe you can achieve moving forward.

Most promotions won't fall into your lap. If you want it, sometimes you just have to ask for it.

Remember, sometimes the greatest impediment to our upward mobility is ourselves. Take this advice and position yourself for a promotion today.

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6 Ways To Position Yourself For A …

Nowadays, it seems like many employees really zone in on the job requirements of their position. Some employees will make sure they stick within their job requirements and do not do much more. Others will work very hard at their job and excel in it.

However, there is a minority group of employees who really step up and contribute in any way they can. If you want a chance to advance in your company, you will have to be a part of that latter group.

So, how can you stand out at work?

If you do your job and do it well, you will brand yourself as a person who is really good at that job. However, when it comes time to promote, the management team is looking for a leader, and leaders typically need to be fully engaged in the company. They not only need to care about their job and role but also about the business in its entirety.

What else are you supposed to do besides your job?

Many people do not realize that while you were hired to do a job, it's also your responsibility to be a part of the company and to do whatever it takes for the company to be successful. You need to continuously find ways to save or make the company money, to prove your value to the employer.

Here are the top 10 ways you can stand out at work and advance your career:

1. Always Offer Ideas And Suggestions

Start with your own job and if you have an idea or two about how it can be done more efficiently, suggest it. Even if your manager balks at it, keep making suggestions wherever you can.

Eventually, one of your ideas will gain support and you'll make a difference at work. Sometimes the smallest ideas can have the greatest impact.

2. Do Not Sit Quietly In Meetings

Woman gets ready to contribute and stand out during a work meeting

We have all been in meetings where there are people who talk and people who do not. Contribute any way you can and contribute at a high level. When management is in meetings with you, they take notice of the contributors.

Leaders are not silent in meetings. If you want to move up in your career, you first need to be present in it.

3. Do MORE Than What Your Job Requires

Man shakes hands with a woman during a work meeting

For example, if you work in customer service and someone needs help, go beyond offering "standard help." Instead of saying to a customer, "Call this number and they can help you," do it for them! Customers like to compliment great service. It is a big deal when upper management or the president of the company hears from customers and they are complimenting YOU.

No matter your job, going above and beyond your standard job duties will help you grow your career.

4. Always Offer To Help Others

Woman stands out at work by helping her coworkers

Become the "go-to" personâthe person who can be counted on to help. If you are that person, it will go a long way!

Let's think about what would happen if your company announced possible layoffs in the near future. An employee who is the "go-to" person and adds value to the organization will be significantly less likely to be laid off than an employee who just sits quietly in the corner and does their job, and maybe does their job well, but doesn't stand out as an indispensable employee.

By offering to help others and having expertise, you'll stand out as a great employeeâone most companies wouldn't want to lose.

5. Be Proactive

Anticipate problems that might arise and come up with suggestions to fix them. Do not wait for things to happen and be a "reactive" employee.

We all have had those moments where we know we could do more if we wanted to. When you have that moment, come up with a plan and do it (or share it with a supervisor).

6. Become A Part Of The Company

Group of coworkers working together to stand out

If your company has a great workplace culture, this makes it that much easier to become a part of your company and feel like you belong. Join a safety committee or a diversity committee or any other group where you feel you can make a great contribution.

7. Do Things Without Being Asked

Coworkers meet to talk about a project at work

If you see that something needs to be done and nobody is doing it, DO IT. Even if it is just cleaning up after a potluck lunch or helping with a company party. It's always amazing how few people do this.

It's really quite simple: people who hang back and help out stand out.

8. Volunteer Wherever You Can

Man stands out while working on a project

Community service is becoming more popular in organizations around the world. If someone sends an email out asking for volunteers, do it if you can. If someone sends out an email about a new initiative in the company, reply and say, "This sounds great! Let me know if there is anything I can do to help. I would love to be a part of this!"

Management takes note of the employees who volunteer together for a good cause or ambitious project.

9. Take The Lead If You Can

Woman stands out as a leader during a work meeting

Someone has to be the leader. Why shouldn't it be you? If it's not you, still contribute at a high level. Throw out ideas and suggestions. Challenge things that do not make sense. If you do this respectfully, you will stand out.

Once again, silence does not get you noticed; it gets you overlooked. Show up in your career and try to become the leader you know you can be one day at a time.

10. Never Badmouth The Company

Talk it up and do your job as if you ARE a leader there. If you do not agree with something, ask questions. Running around badmouthing the company or complaining about your job is a cancer in your career. It will kill any opportunities to advance and may even kill your job.

When you are at work, always seek out ways to improve the company. Become an integral part of taking your company to the next level.

If you show your interest lies far beyond yourself, your job, and your income, you'll stand out and set yourself up to become a future leader in your company.

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How To Stand Out At Work

How To Stand Out At A New Job (And Fit In Too)

Congratulations! After months of job hunting, you finally got hired for the job you wanted!

Getting a new job is exciting. However, after the dust settles from celebrating this accomplishment, you have some work to do.

Being a new employee can be tough sometimes. But if you're ready to embrace the challenge, you can make a smooth transition into your new role.

Here are a few tips to make sure you start your new job off on the right foot.

Understand The Company Culture

First, take time to get to know the culture of your new company. The best way to do this is to schedule meetings with your teamâboth those who will be working for you and with you.

Ask them questions about their work routine and how they get things accomplished. It's also a good idea to get a sense of how easy or difficult it is to implement new ideas and initiatives. This will give you a good feel for how adaptable (or how slow) the company culture is to change.

You should also take note of your own workplace personality and how it fits into the company culture. If you're in need of a good personality test, try Work It Daily's FREE Workplace Personas Quiz.

Identify The Key Stakeholders

Coworkers talk to each other in the office

Next, find out who the key stakeholders are for your specific role and meet with them. For example, if you are entering a company as a finance manager, find out who the key business leaders are that you will be supporting in your position.

Take time to build relationships with them and understand their primary financial concerns. You should also take time to get to know their work routines, and the best times and ways to communicate with them. While communication is important, it's also important to respect each other's schedules.

Find A Work Buddy

Women talk to a remote coworker in the office

Another tip to help you get off on the right foot at your new job is to get a work buddy. This should be a peer who works on the same team or in the same department as you.

This person will help you figure out who's who and give you some inside information on some of those office politics. It's important to understand the team dynamic so you don't step on anyone's toes or disrupt the culture when you first get there.

Your buddy is also there for you to ask questions such as, "How do I order office supplies?" or "How do I set up my voice mailbox?"

Show Your Commitment To The Job

New employee shares a laugh with his boss

Next, have a career conversation with your boss. This lets him or her know you're serious about and committed to growing your career. When you first start working at your new company, you may not know enough (yet) to speak specifically about the career paths available there. However, take time to have a conversation with your manager about your aspirations.

Share information about your desires to advance and grow as well as specific information about your strengths and the areas you'd like to develop. Ask your manager for input on your career plan and then use it as a living, active document.

Make A 30-60-90 Day Plan

Man meets with his boss to discuss his workload

Finally, it always helps to have a 30-60-90 day plan when you start a new job. Document the details of what you want to accomplish in your first three months. (For example, the specific people you want to meet with, the tasks you want to accomplish, etc.) It also helps to share this plan with your manager so you can get some input.

There may be some things missing that your manager views as being critical to accomplish in the first 90 days. Remember to be flexible with your plan as things may change, and the objectives you set for the first three months may shift as you get more involved and learn more about your new job. You want to be seen as committed to meeting your objectives, yet flexible enough to deal with changes.

By implementing these few simple things, you can get off to a great start at your new job and quickly begin to be viewed as a value-add asset at your new company.

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How To Stand Out At A New …

3 Steps To Create Your Own Career Development Plan

If you're wondering how you're going to get where you want to be in your career, there are some simple steps you can take that will help you create your own career development plan.

Let's not be confused by the word âsimple." Sometimes the simplest of concepts or steps can be tough to do because they require some intense thinking and effort. Yet, your think time and effort are an investment in your future and career happiness, which make it all very worthwhile to plan your career growth today.

1. Figure Out Your Destination

As with all efforts, you must be clear about your direction when you create your own career development plan. You don't take a road trip without knowing where you want to end up. You also don't need to overly complicate this task. I think the following questions are helpful in thinking about your destination.

Where do you want your career to be in two years?

I like this question because this window is close enough to your current reality that it's easy to visualize.

Where do you want your career to be in five years?

If you see that your two-year goal is merely a step in an overall direction, then this question helps you define a longer-term career growth goal. Sometimes it's difficult to see that far out in time as life and different opportunities present themselves and can cause you to reset your plans. That's okay, but it's good to be looking "two steps ahead."

What makes these targets resonant for you?

Don't make a goal just for the sake of making one. You need a goal that helps to motivate you into action. If you're making a goal based on what someone else wants, it also isn't going to be that compelling for you. Being clear on your direction means being clear that this direction is inspiring and motivational, and knowing what is driving you to it.

2. Do A Gap Analysis

Professional man doing a gap analysis for his career development plan

A gap analysis is where you figure out the differences in the qualifications between where you are right now and your two-year goal or next step. Using a job posting or job description for the position you are aiming at is a good way to get specific information about the skills and experience that are expected. I think it is good to get more than one job description (perhaps one from your company and one from a competitor) in order to ensure you aren't missing any key items during your analysis.

Go through the job description line item by line item and rate your current state of skills, education, or experience to what is listed. Your rating system can be as simple as 1-10, with 10 a perfect match and one being completely missing. As you rate, make notes about your thought process for future reference.

Once you have completed this exercise, identify all of the items where there is anywhere from a fair amount to a substantial amount of development that is needed. Look for commonalities and clump those together as a category. You will discover that there will be themes to your gaps.

Also, don't get too compulsive about where you don't think you're a perfect match but think you have fairly developed skills. If they are mostly present, they will make you a competitive candidate and shouldn't require too much development attention. You now have a list of development items.

3. Create Your Development Plan

Woman writes down career goals she wants to achieve for her career development plan

You are now fully armed with a clear two-year goal and all the details of where and what you need to develop to get you where you want to go. Your plan will be best if you can consult with your boss and/or a mentor to help you with ideas on how to get the skills you need to add.

There may need to be some logical order to a few of the items on your list. Sometimes you need to do X before you can do Y. Make these among the highest priority items so you can accomplish these things and move on to others. Usually, there are multiple ways of accumulating the skills you need for career growth.

You may also want to have multiple ways of beefing up your skill set to add depth to it. An example is if you want to move to a project management position, you may want to get a certification and also ask for project responsibilities. Initially, these may be small, which is fine; they will give you an opportunity to grow and learn. In addition, you may need to research various ways to get the skills you need to grow in your career.

Once your research is done, it will give you ideas on how you can approach these items. You need dates. You need to keep yourself accountable to your plan. And the best way to do that is to give yourself a "start by" date.

You can't predict how long or how much work you will have to do in order to develop the skill at the level you need, but you do have control over the action you take to get started. Keep track. You need to pay attention to your career development plan a minimum of twice per year. This will allow you to stay focused on your progress and remind you of next steps.

Career development is the sort of thing that you can easily forget about until you wake up one day to realize you have gone nowhere and aren't having fun. You are responsible for where you go in your career. With a little bit of planning, you can accomplish great things.

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Acquiring Job Advance Your Career Career Changing Careers and Employment Education Internship