Six Tips to the Top
“When it comes to career development, if you’re standing still, you may actually be sliding backward.” So says Barbara Hyle, director of alumni career services at Bentley. In today’s challenging job market, the advice rings especially true. On a daily basis, Hyle (left) puts her 20-plus years of career coaching experience to work in helping alumni secure jobs, choose new professional paths, and advance their career. Here, she shares some tips for moving ahead in your career.
Check out the range of career programs and services for Bentley graduates at www.bentley.edu/alumnicareerservices.
Look in the Mirror.
From your professional interests to your strengths and weaknesses to your interpersonal skills — know yourself and act accordingly. What do you enjoy doing and how can your career incorporate these interests? How can you leverage your strengths to get noticed? Plain and simple: Once you know yourself, you will be better able to find a workplace where you can excel.
Stop. Think. Where do I Want to Go?
Take charge of your career by setting goals. Be vigilant in pursuing your aspirations by always considering the future. What do you hope to achieve in the next five to seven years? What can you do today that will get you where you want to be? For example, if your goal is to become a CFO, you might start by examining the career paths of CFOs you admire, then craft your plan accordingly.
Map Out a Career Plan.
Once your goals are established, it’s critical to map out a step-by-step plan of action. If you need training, find a way to get it. If you need to move to a larger firm, start applying. If you need additional experience, ask your boss for more responsibilities. A career plan can keep you focused and help sustain momentum, which is particularly important if your ultimate goal is still years away.
Know the Company You Keep.
The most basic question to ask yourself: Is growth possible at my organization? If the answer is yes, consult your manager on what you need to do to move up, and work together to identify ways to gain the required experience. If your employer cannot offer a promotion, ask for extra responsibilities that will expand your skill set. You may not get the position and raise you want, but you can build valuable experience that may lead to a better job at a different organization.
Get Schooled.
“Do I have 10 years of experience or one year of experience that you repeated 10 times?” This is a question that all professionals should ask themselves. Learning about advancements in your field and acquiring new skills are essential for career advancement. If your manager offers to send you to a conference, say “yes.” If your employer does not currently provide development opportunities, campaign for them. Explain potential benefits in the specific context of how more training or education will improve your job performance. Knowledge truly is power – in life and in career development.
Network Up, Down, Sideways and Always.
Networking should be a lifelong practice, but the best time for it is while you are employed and focused on your future. Be sure to do your homework before an event. Find out who is attending and outline what you’d like to discuss. Try to find common ground with those you meet. People are more likely to engage and remember you if you have an experience or interest in common. For example, many of our alumni have developed lasting relationships through Bentley Success Network events. The shared tie to Bentley makes it easier for attendees to start conversations and form professional relationships. It’s also important to build relationships with managers, peers and clients – the people who have seen your professional strengths firsthand. Bottom line: Network up, down, sideways and always. You never know who will play a role in your future.