Maybe you’ve just started working at a new job and already have your sights set on a promotion in the future, or perhaps you’re feeling unfulfilled in your current industry and are curious about changing fields. No matter your career objectives, you need to set clear goals in order to get to where you want to be. Shared below by HR Daily Advisor, here’s how to create a professional development plan, get involved with the right professional associations, and ensure your résumé reflects your expertise.
Write Down Specific Goals
First, think about what you want to achieve over the next few years. Your overarching goals can be big, such as making a significantly higher salary in a different industry. Don’t hold yourself back! Once you’ve identified a few big goals, you’ll break them down into several more manageable steps you can tackle one at a time.
Map Out Your Action Plan
You’ve jotted down a few big dreams, but how are you supposed to conquer these goals? Taking the process step by step is key. As one example, if you want to land a director-level role at your company, think about all of the smaller steps you would have to take to become an impressive candidate for this title. For instance, Asana states that some sample steps could include finishing a project management course, earning a specific qualification, completing practice coding problems each weekend, attending a conference, or setting up a meeting with your supervisor to discuss your goals. Then, give yourself a general deadline for each of these steps to create a long-term professional development timeline.
Join Professional Associations
Professional associations can be valuable resources for people who are hoping to advance in their careers. By joining a professional association, you’ll be able to meet leaders in your field who can help you achieve your goals, gain access to engaging networking events, and even learn about exciting job opportunities before the opening goes public. Every industry has its own professional associations, so find out which organizations have a presence in your area, and look up the membership requirements.
Seek Out Opportunities
Now that you have an action plan, it’s time to pursue opportunities to complete these small steps. LiquidPlanner recommends asking yourself how you could contribute to ongoing team projects or provide support for new initiatives. Feel free to ask your coworkers or supervisor where your skills are needed most!
You could also take matters into your own hands and start freelancing to build a creative portfolio. Furthermore, working with a mentor can help you jump on new opportunities. You may be able to find a mentor in your workplace or through a professional association.
Update Your Résumé
If you’ve been taking strides toward your goals, you’ve probably taken on some impactful projects in your workplace, earned new certifications, or even volunteered your time with a charitable organization. All of these accomplishments and more deserve space on your résumé! Make sure your résumé looks current by updating it every few months. You can give your résumé a fresh look by choosing a layout from a library of résumé templates designed by professionals! After picking out your preferred template, you’ll just have to add your professional history, as well as any photos or graphics you’d like to include.
By taking a proactive approach to professional development, you can land your dream job. You don’t need to simply wait and hope the right opportunities fall into your lap. Instead, you can determine your specific goals, find supportive professional associations, and create an impressive résumé!
Chelsea Lamb has spent the last 8 years honing her tech skills and is the resident tech specialist at Business Pop. Her goal is to demystify some of the technical aspects of business ownership.