Picture this… you’re sat at your desk, and you’re thinking ‘what’s next’ in my career.
In the current world, there’s a lot to think about…
Choosing whether or not to be working in certain roles are critical decisions at any point in your career. They will inevitably, have an impact on our lives in general also… and where we’re headed in the future
Whilst it’s essential to consider how a role (current and new) fits into our personal lives, we must also consider career development when evaluating opportunities, and where they might take us professionally, for the future.
This blog aims to ‘balance out’ some of the importance of focusing on long-term growth and professional advancement, when considering job propositions, rather than solely assessing how they align with our current lifestyle and how we may have shaped everything in a ‘post Covid world’
In many a year gone by… people have considered salary, work-life balance, location, and convenience when evaluating job offers or their current positions.
Today’s job market is one of many moving parts and incredibly dynamic, so a more forward-thinking approach is probably advisable.
Honestly, it’s a bit of a ‘minefield’…
We need to look to the future, as well as the current…
Instead of focusing purely on short-term benefits, it’s now essential to consider how a new role, or your current one, might align with your long-term career goals and help you grow professionally
The Significance of Career Development, and what’s to consider
Career development, surely now more than ever, in a remote world… needs to be a crucial consideration.
When we join companies who prioritise skills development and provide training programs, we’re investing in our ‘future selves’ enhancing our expertise, staying competitive in our field.
Taking a ‘career developing’ step should move us closer towards potential promotions and advancement
(if that’s what you’re seeking)
Companies who really push internal ‘moves’ and professional growth provide us with the chance to build on our own futures, whilst also being inclusive of others in the same organisation… building our professional network of peers.
By continuously working towards our personal and professional goals, we should, in turn, experience greater fulfilment and motivation towards a ‘joint business cause’, or at least this should be the case, with a joint vested interest.
Roles which allow us to develop a broader skillset, gain us exposure to different ‘circumstances’ in our field, and have us working with cross-functional teams, these should be high on the agenda for anyone wanting to carve out a path to a more senior post in the future.
As such, accepting a new role based on career development should aid us in connecting with professionals in and outside of our industry. Learning from others is a massive part of maturing within any industry field and should never be undervalued.
These connections greatly influence our career trajectory…
Making an Informed Decision
Self-Reflection: Candidates considering new roles should spend time reflecting on their career goals, passions, and areas of interest. By identifying these long-term aspirations, it should help to assess whether a job offer aligns with their ambitions and what is required from the new step/venture.
Research: Asking the right questions of the company… honing in on the values, growth opportunities, and employee development programmes is really crucial. Candidates and employers alike, should consider the organisation’s commitment to employee growth, and whether it provides a supportive environment for career advancement and future growth.
Assessing Growth Potential: Candidates should evaluate the potential for skill development, promotions, and learning opportunities within the organisation they’re currently in already, also.
Factors such as training programmes, mentorship initiatives, and the company’s track record for promoting from within should be considered…
and you’ve guessed it, if they don’t align or don’t tally up with where you’re wanting to go in the future…
it may be time to consider something new.
Closing Thoughts
When it comes to considering a job offer or indeed a new role search, remember that your decision should revolve around what benefits you as a candidate or employee, but also how it will benefit you in the future from a career advancing perspective (if that’s what you are seeking).
Whilst it’s important to consider how a job fits into your personal life, don’t forget to prioritise your career development, as to avoid getting into a situation where you’ve got nowhere to go, due to lack of relevant or up to date skills and experience.
So, whether you choose to accept an offer, begin your search or continue on in your current business, make sure it leads to your personal growth and professional satisfaction, as that should serve to keep you fulfilled, for longer.
The power is in your hands to shape your journey according to your own desires, ambitions and future potential.