We all want to get as far along the career path in our chosen field as possible. After all, the further you progress, the more stable your role will probably be, the more likely you will be considered for promotion and the more money you’re likely to earn. Plus, many of us are actively interested in our field of specialism, so actually gain joy in progressing within it and achieving different things along the way. But you’re going to have to put effort into doing any of these things. Furthering your career falls largely into your hands! Here are a few steps you can take to get started in the right direction!
Consider Higher Education and Courses
You may have already had to go to university or college to get a degree in order to secure your current role. But whether you’ve already been in higher education or not, chances there are further courses you can take to help push your career forward. Committing to courses will endow you with further and more up to date knowledge, making you a better candidate for better roles. They also show commitment to your position, as they take time and effort, as well as financial investment. So, take a look at different courses that are relevant to your curreny job or the job you’re considering applying to. A good example is that if you work with tax at all, an accounting CPE could really benefit you!
Leave Dead End Jobs
Some jobs are dead end jobs and offer absolutely no opportunity for progression or furthering your career in any way, shape or form. Some people are happy in dead end roles. It could indicate that they’ve reached the highest possible position within their career ladder, or they may simply not be interested in taking on further responsibility for better pay or a more acclaimed job title. But if you do want to progress your career and keep moving forward, you need to be able to recognise and acknowledge when you’re in a dead end role and do something about it. Consult with your manager or other relevant individuals within the company to check whether there are any opportunities for advancement – if they claim that they are, request dates when this could be achieved. If these keep turning out to be empty promises, or if the answer is simply no, it’s time to leave. Search for other roles, interview for them and when you’re offered one, hand in and work your notice. There’s no point being pinned down to a job that’s not giving you what you want or need – no matter how comfortable it may be.
Ask
Don’t be afraid to ask for promotions or pay raises if you feel that you’re eligible for them. If you never ask, it’s highly unlikely any company will offer them of their own accord – they’ll be looking to save money wherever they can. Remember, the worst they can do is say no, so it really is worth simply asking.
These are just a few different steps you can take to advance your career. Hopefully, they’ll come in useful for you at some point along the line!
