Feeling stuck in your current career and wondering how to take control of your professional development? Don’t worry, for that’s a common feeling, one that I’ve experienced myself.
The tips I’m about to share I have learned from speaking with hundreds of successful professionals throughout my recruiting career. They can help you stay on top of your career goals and make the most of your time in the workforce. They will also help you take control of your career and achieve your professional goals.
Build and Maintain Your Professional Network
This is not just about connecting with people on social media; it’s about staying in touch with them in real life, you remember the telephone, right? Attend industry events and conferences. Connect with people you meet on LinkedIn. Keep in touch with former colleagues, mentors, and managers, as they can provide valuable insights into your career development and act as your references when you make a job change.
Networking is an ongoing process. Investing time and effort into building and maintaining relationships is crucial. Not only will it help you stay up-to-date on industry trends and opportunities, but it can also lead to job offers and career advancement.
Save Every Annual Review from Your Employer
Annual reviews serve as your reference for future job opportunities. Print them out or save them as a file on your computer. These reviews provide valuable feedback on your strengths and areas for improvement. Use them to set goals and work towards achieving them.
At the same time, these reviews help you conduct a confidential job search and provide insight to potential employers. Potential employers can get accurate references on you without speaking to anyone. They simply read your reviews.
Update Your Resume and LinkedIn Profile Regularly
Take the time to review and update your resume every six months to reflect what you’ve accomplished in your current role. Do the same with your LinkedIn profile, as it’s a valuable tool for networking and showcasing your skills to potential employers.
Also, always listen to opportunities, even if you’re not actively looking for a new job. You never know when the perfect job for you will arise, and having an up-to-date resume and LinkedIn profile can help you prepare for it.
Managing your career effectively requires a proactive approach, and these tips can help you to take control of your professional development. With these tips, you’ll be on your way to achieving your career goals and reaching your full potential.
For more career tips, follow me on LinkedIn at Dan Simmons or reach me through email at dan@continentalsearch.com. Be updated with our latest blogs by following our LinkedIn page or visiting continentalsearch.com.
About the Author
Dan Simmons founded Continental Search in 1996 but focused exclusively on animal nutrition recruiting in 2002. He has won over 20 awards from Top Echelon Network, America’s leading placement network, including Placer of the Year in 2009 and the prestigious Million Dollar Award.
Dan is currently focused on recruiting top talents such as nutritionists, technical support professionals, sales managers, and executive-level positions, including technical directors and VP of sales and marketing.For the latest job opportunities, you may connect with Dan on LinkedIn or email him at dan@continentalsearch.com.
