Start Your New Year Off by Taking Control of Your Career
It is that time of the year again…time to make those New Year’s resolutions. My typical New Year’s resolution (which lasts about 2 weeks) is to work out at least three times a week. I always kick butt (and my butt gets kicked) the first few weeks and then…well life gets in the way (or at least that’s my excuse:-)).
Since I’m not a good New Year’s resolution keeper….perhaps I can help you by giving you some tips for taking control of your career for 2009.
1. Reflect on your current position
Does your current position utilize your professional abilities and talents? Are you maximizing your earning potential? (I know this is a delicate question as we all live in resort towns where most of us aren’t able to maximize our earning potentials as we are here for the “quality of life”.) If you aren’t maximizing your earning potential, are you at least passionate about what you do? If your answers are “no” assess your situation and work towards a new position/career that might help highlight them.
2. Meet with your boss
Instead of guessing at your strengths and weaknesses, gain the input you need directly from your boss. Schedule a lunch or sit down over coffee to get their opinion on skills that will boost your advancement possibilities. Try to make regular meetings to re-evaluate goals and set priorities.
3. Establish a plan of action
Think of the required steps you need to take to get your 2009 career goals going and put them down on paper. Try to make deadlines to follow, but keep them realistic.
4. Get organized
Take time in the slow holiday weeks to rearrange your files so they are more organized and efficient. Archive all your 2008 documents into your file cabinet further from your desk, leaving the files used daily closer and less cluttered.
5. Boost work relationships
Strong relationships with people you work with can develop in small ways. Try to keep a positive attitude when working with others. Maintaining good relationships with colleagues will not only make the office a place you want to be but can boost work productivity…and, you never know who may get promoted and become your next boss.
Karen Goedert
Executive Recruiter, CIR