Whatever your career ambitions, it can be a bitter pill to swallow when things don’t move in the right direction. A lack of opportunities and tough competition means that it’s more difficult than ever to move up the career ladder. Difficult, but not impossible.
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Sometimes, when it comes to your career, you need to take matters into your own hands. Promotions very rarely happen on their own, you need to work hard for them. If you find your career is going nowhere fast, then take a look at the following ways to boost your profile and make you a candidate nobody will want to say no to.
Keep studying
Studying for extra qualifications after you’ve graduated can be a great way to develop your career. The availability of online courses and part-time study means it’s easier than ever to juggle work and further education. You could complete an online MBA degree to help give you the qualifications you need to impress your employers while you chase those promotions. There are various courses you can undertake that could help you with the skills you need to further your career.
Freelance on the side
Want some experience of being in charge, taking on individual projects, and client management? Try freelancing. Freelancing could be a good way to boost your income while you work for your pay rise, while also giving you some valuable experience outside of the office. Learn more about balancing freelancing with a full-time job to learn more about how it’s done.
Get a mentor
Having a mentor is becoming more and more popular for workers as they look to make their mark on their chosen industry. Mentors can provide real-world advice and be honest about their experience, which could help you to improve your own. If you find the right mentor, they might even be able to open up new opportunities that wouldn’t have got otherwise. Having a mentor has many benefits, and if you need a bit of a helping hand with your career, they can be a useful asset.
Show willingness
Even if you don’t think you’ll get the job, it doesn’t hurt to throw your hat in the ring for promotions as they arise. Getting interview practice is important, and when you try for higher up positions, you’re showing your employers that your intention is to progress. Volunteer for projects and tasks that will enhance your experience and boost your skills – it’ll help you make a mark that people will remember the next time you interview.
Furthering your career is important, but if your job is starting to walk all over you – it might be time to move on elsewhere. While people might have been loyal to a company in the past, more competition means you need to chase the opportunities when they become available – even if it means moving onto another company. Focus on your own career and bettering yourself by developing your skills and experience to make you the perfect candidate for a promotion.
