Getting a new role or securing a promotion are amongst the most common resolutions that people make to themselves at the start of the year. If you want to give your career a boost in 2020, take a look at our top ten resolutions that you should aim to keep in order to get ahead.
1. Speak up!
Don’t just assume that your boss knows that you are keen to take on new responsibilities or move onto the next level. Seize the initiative and ask to sit down with your manager and outline your career goals so you can both put in place a plan for you to achieve them.
2. Put it in writing
Make sure that you are fully prepared for your appraisal or review but putting down the key points that you want to communicate in writing. Take time to read over your job description and look back over previous performance reviews and highlight your key achievements so you can confidently explain why you think you are ready to make the next move.
3. Address any issues head on
Your boss may have reasons as to why you haven’t been given new responsibilities; rather than stewing about what these might be, look to find out what these are and what you can do in order to address these? By asking what you need to do in order to justify a promotion you will demonstrate that you are keen to make improvements as well as enable you to have a clear set of objectives to work towards.
4. Take the opportunity to learn
As well as looking at what training programmes could be available to you through your current employer, check out local colleges and online training providers to see what opportunities there are to challenge yourself and expand your knowledge. As well as professional development, taking part in workshops or classes related to your interests outside of work will also demonstrate to your boss or future employer your commitment to continual learning.
5. Dress for success
We all know the importance of dressing well for an interview but you shouldn’t let your standards slip once you have established yourself with your employer – especially when you are aiming for a promotion! Freshen up your look by updating your work wardrobe and if you are looking to take a step up take note of at others who are already at a similar level and look to emulate how they are expected to dress.
6. Make time to network
Whilst putting in the hours and taking on additional responsibilities can help you get recognised by your superiors, one of the most effective ways to improve your career prospects is to brush up on your networking skills. There are a host of networking opportunities and events ranging from industry conferences to one-to-one lunches so build time into your schedule to attend those which will be most suitable.
7. Don’t hide behind technology
It can often seem easier to send an email or a text rather than pick up the phone or have a quick chat with a colleague but if you are serious about improving your career prospects now is the time to get to know the people that you work with better and allow them to see more of what you have to offer. Discussing matters face to face will enable you to demonstrate your communication skills as well as letting others see how you handle certain situations.
8. Follow up your interview
Potential employers are keen to bring people into their teams who they can see are passionate and enthusiastic about the opportunity to join the company. Make sure you follow up any interviews with a brief email thanking your interviewer for their time and make reference to particular aspects of the role which you feel most interested you and reiterate any skills or experience which best demonstrate your suitability for the role.
9. Spring clean your social media accounts
Potential employers can find out a wealth of information about you from your social media activity so take a good look at what your online profile says about you. Make sure that your Linkedin account is bang up to date with your most recent achievements and think carefully about what aspects of your life outside of work you choose to share on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
10. Find a mentor
If there is someone in your field that you admire don’t be afraid to approach them and see if they would be willing to share some of their time and mentor you in a particular aspect of your career. Similarly you could look to offer your skills and talents to others whom you think could benefit from your knowledge and in doing so will enable you to add further strings to your own bow.
Sharp Consultancy specialises in the recruitment of temporary, interim and permanent finance professionals. With offices in Leeds and Sheffield our highly experienced team of consultants recruit for positions throughout Yorkshire and beyond. CONTACT US today to discuss your recruitment needs with a member of our team.