Is there a perfect time to start planning your career? I don’t believe so. Whether you are 18 years of age or 58 years of age, I believe the perfect time to start planning and thinking more strategically about your career is NOW! Not tomorrow. Not after graduation. Not when the kids are grown. Not when you have more time. Now!
You have the primary responsibility for planning your career. Teachers, managers, coworkers, family, and friends may offer assistance along the way, but the primary responsibility for your career success is—you!
It is important to plan and prepare for your professional career. Being successful requires planning and a little luck never hurts.
Here are some tips to help you plan your career.
- Always make a good impression. Make a positive and lasting impression by listening to others and taking an interest in what others are saying. Smile. Be respectful.
- Gain professional experience. Be strategic when accepting new positions and seeking new employers. How is this new experience helping you to achieve your career goals? Just because you are offered a position doesn’t mean you have to accept it. Say “yes” to positions and employers that will help you to build the resume you desire.
- Volunteer. Seek volunteer opportunities that can help you to acquire skills, grow your network, and gain leadership experience. Consider volunteering in your children’s or grandchildren’s school, within your community, within a professional organization you belong to, or to support a cause you believe in.
- Seek leadership positions. Gain leadership experience by seeking leadership roles within your community (e.g. school board, city council, PTA, etc.) Seek leadership positions while attending school (e.g., student body council, student clubs, etc.)
- Understand your strengths and weaknesses. Take time to learn about your strengths and weaknesses. I like to think of weaknesses as opportunities for growth. Do your strengths align with your career goals? What areas do you need to improve upon to help you become more successful in your career goals?
- Seek a mentor. Mentors are essential in my life. There are many, many working professionals that I admire, respect, and have learned from over the years. I’m like a sponge wanting to learn as much as I can from others. What lessons can you learn from others?
Career opportunities are endless today. Learn about yourself, research your career, develop a career plan, seek work and volunteer opportunities to gain the right experience, and reach out to others to assist you.
Your overall career success involves continuous learning, seeking and saying “yes” to opportunities, acquiring new knowledge, and taking risks. Enjoy your journey!