Working is not a linear progression. Instead, it is an amalgamation of stops, starts, and reinventions where you are always bettering yourself and learning more to reach the next level. As with the gamer mantra of “Just one more level,” the business world’s equivalent is to keep striving for the next promotion or innovation. In order to achieve those markers, however, you need to level up on your own. Here’s how to do just that.
Work with a Business Coach
Do you have business goals? Of course, you do. You likely have a variety of goals you wish to pursue in your professional life. Anything from earning that next promotion to leading an innovative and change-making project that will get you noticed, and beyond is a worthy goal to aspire to. If you are unsure of where to start on the path to your lofty goals, you should consider business coaching. A professional business coach will guide you in pursuit of your business goals to help you learn valuable skills, attain a more growth-minded mindset, and create a strategic roadmap to help you move forward toward success.
Pursue a Mentor Relationship
If you do not already have a mentor, it is time to find one. A mentor is generally someone who has more professional experience than you. The mentor does not have to work within your business vertical but should have success in their own right so that they can offer you the wisdom of their experience, including failures, anecdotal evidence of best practices, and practical advice. Look for a mentor at networking events, in your place of business, or on alumni websites.
Go Back to School
One of the most advantageous and strategic moves you can make to level up your career is furthering your education. The path you take will depend on your current work arrangement, your career field, and where you are on the corporate ladder. Look into options in your workplace for tuition reimbursement or support for continuing education. If you do it on your own, make sure you let your management know that you are taking on this task and what you hope to gain if you plan on staying in your company and moving up. Obtaining another degree, certification, or business-specific license shows that you are dedicated to growing and doing more. Hiring managers like to see that type of motivation.
Update Your CV
As you complete those previously mentioned courses, certifications, or degrees, make sure you update your CV immediately. You never know when you might need it, so it is always in your best interest to keep it current. Add new skills, work responsibilities and accomplishments, and current and former positions. Instead of simply adding new bullet points and headlines, carefully review what is already there to ensure the wording is in line with today’s professional vernacular.
Watch this video for expert advice on how to fine-tune and tailor your CV to individual positions.
Refresh Social Media Profiles
Updating your social media profiles should go hand in hand with a CV overhaul. Look at all of your social media accounts and assess them individually based on what you use them for. Look at platforms such as LinkedIn and make any changes to align it with the professional image you want to put forth. Pay special attention to TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook and remove any content that does not place your reputation in a good light. You may have grown considerably since first creating these accounts. University party pictures, hen and stag night events, and the like can all be removed or changed to private if you no longer wish to share them publicly.
Network
As the adage goes, it’s not what you know but who you know. Find opportunities at work to talk with the changemakers. When there is an after-hours event where you know they will be in attendance, make it a priority to take part. Outside of work, look for business mixers, conferences, and networking events to attend. Approach new people at these events to make connections and build up your personal network.
Update Your Appearance
This one can be tricky. You look great just the way you are, remember that. However, a new haircut and a wardrobe refresh can sometimes help you stand taller and make you feel good. If you are someone who could benefit from a confidence boost, then you should treat yourself to some new business attire that you will feel comfortable in and proud to wear.
Get Organised
Being organised is essential regardless of what level you are at in business, whether you are in the C-Suite or are still working your way up the ladder. It is crucial for job security and upward mobility for you to stay on top of project timelines, deadlines, conference calls, meetings, and any other manner of endless priorities. The solution is to find a process that works for you. Perhaps your smartphone is the answer – with a calendar, reminder app, and notes app at the tip of your fingers, this will work best. Or maybe a paper planner with sticky flags and colour-coordinated entries to keep you on task.
Attend to Your Personal Life
While it may seem unrelated, your work and personal lives are, in fact, related. If there are too many demanding or unattended responsibilities at home, you are less likely to be focused at work. Priorities such as childcare, eldercare, or even pets can pull your focus away from work. Make efforts to get help with your personal needs by talking with your family, asking for help from friends, or hiring assistance from outside agencies to lighten your load.
When you are ready to take your career to the next level or start a new one, follow one or all of these helpful ideas. A successful professional life does not happen on its own or in a vacuum. You need to move moves to make it happen the way you want. What are you waiting for?