1. Always have a PLAN for your Career
There
are no guarantees for permanent employment anywhere. Have a mental map of where
you want your career to go, and keep an eye out for opportunities that would
get you one step closer. Such opportunities include projects that increase your
visibility, memberships, training, speaking engagements, etc. Developing a career plan ensures that you
can continue moving your career forward.
2. Continuously
upgrade and develop
Know your strengths, and continue to
develop them further. Pick up projects and initiatives that would utilize your
strengths. Figure out additional training (adjacencies, development areas)
every year. Look for mentors and trusted advisors to give objective feedback.
3. Figure out the DNA of your Corporate World
It’s important to fit into the culture
of your corporate environment and to be liked, in order to get ahead. Be aware
of the drivers and focus of the management; be aligned with their vision for
the organization, so that you can pick up or be involved in relevant
initiatives.
4 Communicate Effectively
It’s easy to say “Communicate more
effectively”, but it’s not easy. The biggest challenges comes from
misinterpretations and misunderstandings. Do ensure your messages are clear,
concise, understood and accepted. When in doubt, it’s better to
overcommunicate. Pay attention to how you text, email, call or speak. Actively
listen, rephrase and check for understanding.
5 Teamwork across cultures, generations
and functions
Everyone has different work styles.
Effective communication (see Pt 4) plays a major part in ensuring teams work
smoothly together. An open mindset to what others have to offer and embracing
diversity more often than not results in better outcomes.
6 Manage Conflicts and Problems
effectively
There will always be problems, speed
bumps, challenges and obstacles. How you handle them can show your leadership
potential. Remain calm, rational and diplomatic.
7 Continuously Network
Continue to build and nurture
relationships both within the organization and across the industry. Nurturing
relationships within the organization would enable you to navigate the
corporate more effectively and possibly increase your influence. Industry
networks helps you keep an eye on trends, competitor movements and useful
information to help you stay ahead of the game. Career opportunities usually
surface via network too.
8 Strengthen your Leadership Skills
Learn from the leaders you admire.
Emulate how effectively leaders communicate and strategize. Learn to delegate,
influence and find opportunities to increase your visibility.
9 Pay attention to your Reputation
Your personal and professional brand
needs careful management. How you communicate, how you dress, how you behave
and what you put on social media, are just a few things that could make or
break your reputation. What do you think people would say about you when you’re
not in the room? You could be passed over for a promotion or not get the job
you’ve been interviewing for because of something you may not even be aware of.
For more career acceleration advice, contact us at [email protected]!
