Career Reinvention &
Personal Brand Strategist

Be Your Own Career Manager

July 02, 2007
By: Randi Bussin-Career Coach, Personal Branding Specialist

The famous proverb, "Physician, heal thyself," can be adapted very nicely to the workplace as in: "Employee, manage thyself."

The days are long gone when an employee could be assured that their company would guide them up the ladder to success via learning new job skills and promotions. Basically, you're on your own now.

And, since you can't depend on your company, you have to do it yourself. Here are five tips that will help you keep your career well-managed and moving in the right direction:

 

1. Develop a Game Plan. The first thing you need to do to manage your career is to develop a career plan. Decide where you want to be two, five, and 10 years from now. This includes which region you want to work in, which company, which position, and how to get there.

2. Document Yourself. If part of your plan is to advance with your present firm, then you should start documenting all of the extra projects, duties, committees, and responsibilities with which you were involved. Using this simple list will help you greatly at your annual review, and it also can be used in a job interview to show that you are an employee who is willing to go the extra mile.

3. Network, Network, Network. Whether your career plan has you switching jobs soon or staying at the same firm for the next 10 years, establishing a great network of contacts will be invaluable. Look to extend your network from friends and co-workers to other contacts inside and outside or your organization and profession. Your network can be essential in getting you a promotion or new job.

4. Keep Current. Taking new classes, courses, or seminars is a great way to update your skills and keep you current and relevant. It's important to try something new, something challenging, and something that will improve your marketability and make you look like a fresh new face-even if you aren't looking for a new job.

5. Be Passionate. All of the above are important things to do to help properly manage your career and reach your professional goals. But, none of these methods will work for you if you don't love your job and career. So, if you have doubts about your career direction, don't hesitate to seek out help. Your human resources department, a job fair, a career guidance seminar or class, and a career coach can help point you in the right direction. Then, the rest is up to you!
   

©2010, Randi Bussin, Aspire!

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