Now that January is coming to a close, it’s time to get serious about your career plans for 2017. It doesn’t matter if 2016 was filled with professional wins or losses, the new year is a blank slate filled with possibilities. You’re a talented person with limitless potential, so make sure you’re working to your full potential.
Success doesn’t just happen — it takes hard work and careful planning. Follow these four steps to take your professional life to new heights this year.
Map Your Career
Take a long, hard look at your current role and your level of job satisfaction. If you’re happy on your existing path, decide what the next step up the ladder is and how to get there. Of course, if you’re not satisfied, locate the problem and create a new plan you’re excited about. Regardless of your plans, mapping your future out is important, because it’s easy to get lost if you don’t know where you’re headed.
Request More Responsibility at Work
Demonstrate initiative to your boss by requesting additional assignments in areas that interest you and volunteering to take the lead on group projects. This is a great way to grow your skillset, boost your resume and show your manager you can handle a job title with more weight. Leaving your comfort zone may be intimidating at first, but it’s a necessary part of broadening your career horizons.
Make Learning a Priority
Make yourself more valuable to employers by constantly working to boost your skillset. In addition to taking on more responsibility at work, search for ways outside the office to learn and grow. This may involve going back to school for an additional certification or degree, which is a major investment, but one worth your time and money. Other less-time intensive options may include attending industry conferences and seminars or volunteering your time at a nonprofit in a role that closely resembles one you’d like to hold in the future.
Place a Greater Emphasis on Networking
The more industry contacts you have, the better your chances of landing an outstanding opportunity. Increase your contact list by joining a professional organization or two and attending a couple networking mixers per month. This is a great way to meet like-minded professionals who might be able to connect you with your dream job.
Make 2017 the year you finally get the Chicago manufacturing or engineering job you deserve. Premium Staffing, Inc. is here to guide your search for the right fit, helping you find a challenging, fulfilling opportunity. Contact us today to start the next chapter of your career!