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Ten pieces of outstanding career advice
At some point in our lives, we all think about what our future careers might look like. We dream about making an impact and envision the best path to take to achieve our goals. However, as we move beyond high school, the availability of career guidance becomes scarce. Instead, we rely on mentors and coaches to guide us through our professional journey. Seeking guidance that is tailored to your needs is the best way to ensure you receive the support you require.
Finding the right person to offer professional guidance is crucial. My first mentor shared one of the most valuable pieces of advice with me: if you want something, find someone who has achieved it and ask them how they did it. This advice goes beyond just reaching a specific goal or position. It is about understanding the holistic impact of achieving that goal. What kind of lifestyle does the person have? How do they manage their time? Does their career align with their personal life? Your idea of success should be unique to you. Connect with someone who is dedicated to helping you achieve your goals, whatever they may be.
Seeking career guidance can sometimes feel daunting. Asking for feedback can make you feel vulnerable. Here are three steps to make seeking career guidance a more seamless process:
1. Take control of your professional roadmap.
Having a clear strategy is key to your professional growth. Whether you are looking to enhance your skills, explore new opportunities, or make a significant change, coaching can provide you with clarity, confidence, and direction.
2. Be specific with your inquiries.
Rather than asking for generic advice, focus your questions on a specific aspect of your career that you need guidance on.
3. Invest in building relationships.
Valuable advice can come from anyone. While chance encounters may lead to life-changing guidance, consider seeking out a mentor or hiring a professional coach for more structured support.
“You create opportunities; they do not just happen.” – Chris Grosser
Creating a vision statement for your career is essential. What are your desired actions? What does your ideal career look like? How will it impact your life? Defining your professional goals can help you align your career choices with what truly matters to you.
Understanding the nature of your future employment is equally important. Every career path comes with its challenges, and it is vital to assess whether those challenges align with your personal goals. Working with a mentor or coach can help you gain insight into the realities of your chosen career path.
Embrace learning at every opportunity. Adopting a beginner’s mindset is essential for professional growth. Take advantage of on-the-job training, ask questions, and network with colleagues to enhance your skills. Consider shadowing someone in your field to gain valuable insights into their career journey.
Learn to say no when necessary. Trust your instincts and do not feel pressured to accept a job that does not align with your goals. It is sometimes better to decline an offer that veers you off course than to compromise your values.
“Leaders are created, not born.” – Coach in Leadership
Consider working with a coach to enhance your leadership skills. A coach can help you identify your strengths and areas for improvement, enabling you to develop introspection and personal growth.
Look ahead and anticipate future challenges. Reflect on your past experiences to gain insights into what you want in your career. Regularly review your career plan to ensure it aligns with your goals.
Stay informed about industry trends and advancements to ensure you remain competitive in your field. Continuous learning and upskilling are crucial for ongoing career growth.
Avoid burnout by establishing a healthy work-life balance early in your career. Avoid falling into the trap of overworking, as it can lead to burnout in the long run.
“It’s the pebble in your shoe, not the mountains ahead to climb, that wear you out.” – Muhammad Ali
Analyze your feelings towards your current job to gain insights into your career goals. Focus on what you love about your job rather than dwelling on what you dislike. Consider making a lateral move within your organization to gain new skills and reignite your passion for your work.
