If you’re serious about career progression, you’ll need habits that take you further faster. I suggest the following:
Daily:
- Produce quality work, go the extra mile and strive to exceed expectations. Nowadays average is extremely common so in the eyes of many, it’s acceptable. What ultimately matters is what your leader expects. You want to give your best effort consistently, learn from your mistakes and seek feedback for continued growth.
- Manage your reputation. Applying for roles means you’ve initiated your next opportunity, however the invisible interview is ongoing. Everything from what you say to your social media presence is being observed. Career progression is so much more than performance. You could be tapped for a career move based on who you are and how you conduct yourself.
- Take 5 min to track your success. You can reference your success document for performance evaluation conversations as well as interview preparation.
Weekly:
- Capture 3 examples of your results that demonstrate skill proficiency. Whether it’s taking the lead on a project or participating in one, you should have a document detailing the situation, your actions and the result. Affirming your result-driven accomplishments serves as encouragement and also confirms your value to the organization. This document should be referenced for interview preparation, monthly meetings with your leader and performance conversations.
- Absorb new information. Knowledge is the new currency and continuous learning aids in your professional growth. Whether it’s an article, a podcast, an online class, a video or a few pages of a book- learn more to earn more. Investing in yourself eventually pays off.
- Self- assess. Ask yourself “What will I need to start doing, what should I stop doing and what should I continue doing?”; then implement a plan of action.
Monthly:
- Meet with your mentor and your leader. Arrive prepared to discuss performance and ideas; discuss business trends and ask questions. Allow those meetings to not only serve as accountability but to also help you course correct when needed.
- Express gratitude. Whether it’s a thank you or agreeing to mentor someone, express appreciation and be willing to serve. These are common traits of those who lead in the workplace.
What habits will you implement that help you uplevel your career?