The past year changed nearly everything about how we think about life, work, and planning for success. As you progress through 2021 and find a new equilibrium, it only makes sense to take some time to ponder your career. What do you want the next five, ten, twenty years to look like? What can you do now to ensure you are on the right path to achieve those goals?
Do I Need to Make Changes To My Career This Year?
Don’t Hesitate to Speak Up
It can be tempting to try to fit in, to tell people what you think they want to hear. That’s a recipe for finding yourself in a job that doesn’t suit your interests, personality, or goals. Be honest in interviews when you’re looking for a new job or even in meetings in your current position when you have something of value to add. For example, if you have new ideas for approaching challenges others have not considered, you could be recognized as a valuable asset to the company. With any luck, you can even catch the attention of leaders in the company with the influence to help you reach your career goals.
Planning Can Give You More Freedom
It may seem counter-intuitive to plan your days and even block out your time, but when you account for and check off your must-dos, you can relax and enjoy your downtime. People sometimes reject the idea of structuring their day or don’t know how to do it, but it’s essential, particularly if you are working from home into 2021 and beyond. Without a plan, your home life can bleed into work time, and work tasks can overflow into your personal time. While this flexibility gives you the freedom to work when you are at your peak and rest when you are not, it’s not without its downsides. The danger is you can feel like you’re never done with work but never fully enjoy your downtime, feeling guilty because you think you should be working. Instead, plan out your week or day to define what tasks you need to complete or goals want to accomplish. Put them on your schedule by estimating how much time they will take and blocking out the time on your calendar.
Don’t Be Afraid To Take Risks
One of the dangers you can face in your career is not achieving your true potential because you never took any risks. Don’t be afraid to apply for jobs where you have most of the qualifications. Even if you don’t have 100% of them, you may be able to find ways to repurpose your skills and experience. Try a field that’s more appealing to where your skills are in demand. Take advantage of opportunities to work on a contract or temp-to-hire basis to try out different industries or jobs without committing to a full-time position. It’s a great way to find a job that is just the right fit.
Take A Step Back Or To The Side To Move Forward
Don’t be so focused on the next step on your career ladder that you don’t for other ways of achieving your goals. For example, if you want to take your skills to a tough to get into company or a different industry, you may need to take a slight pay cut or a step back on your career ladder. Getting to where you want sometimes means taking lateral moves that can help you gain exposure. It can earn you an even better promotion or open career paths you may not have considered.
Looking to make a change in your career in 2021? We’d love to help!
At The Panther Group, our recruiting team works with employers in many industries who are hiring now. Whether you want to make a significant change or take the next step up the ladder, we can help you find the right opportunity for you.
There is no cost to finding a job through us here at TPG! We serve the following industries: Professional, Accounting & Finance, Engineering, Life Sciences, Information Technology, Federal.
Call 855-899-JOBS (5627)
