HOW TO GET THE CAREER YOU WANT

14 June

This year I am going to save you from a New Year's New Job post and figured I could be more helpful at providing insight on how to get the career you want instead of a cheesy tagline.

The "New Year. New You" concept used to work in my previous fitness career very well, but we spend far more time at work than anywhere else, so it really applies to your career and your waistline

Over the years I have interviewed and met with a variety of different people all at different stages of their careers. Interestingly the main reasons people look for a new role are typically culture fit, the opportunity to grow their career and mentoring/coaching AND then money.

So how do you get clear on what role you want to be doing now and in the future?

Here are three ways to help you get the job you want…

1. First thing, first. You have to define your goal and ambitions – what do you enjoy doing and what type of role you want? Hint: Sometimes, starting with what you don't want is easier.

In your current role, list what you like doing and what you don't. Doing this will help you understand what you enjoy more clearly and, more than likely, what you are good at.

For example, I love seeing a building come together, but I wouldn't say I like being based on-site OR I really like crunching numbers and running analysis, but I'm not too fond of scheduling programs.

2. Next up, let's clarify what type of environment you like working in. Who was your best manager or a leader that you admire? What was it that you wanted about the organisation? Were they social? Did they provide you with room to make your own mistakes vs micromanaging?

Getting clear on what type of environment you thrive in makes work more enjoyable for you and will impact the likelihood of getting promoted. Happy people generally just do more, and if you are supported well, your manager/leader will notice!

3. The final piece to the puzzle is that you must write it down and share it with people you trust who can help you get where you need to go. A plan without a goal is just a wish. By writing it down, you get clarity; you can refer to it when an opportunity presents itself.

Once you have your list complete, it would be worth reaching out to your network and connecting with people currently in the type of role you want and also working within the businesses you want to work in.

And just like that, you have made a career plan for your future!