How to: Move your Career Forward

The last couple of months have been uncertain and have disrupted our “normal” working life and any carefully laid plans. It is understandable to feel all sorts of emotions such as stressed, overwhelmed, and isolated. However, once you find that you are able to get these emotions under control (at least some of the time) it can be an opportunity to re-evaluate and move forward.

Instead of spending your downtime glued to your TV awaiting the latest updates or browsing social media, channel your energy into planning how to more forward.

Here are some ways that you can manage the “new normal” while still moving your career forward:

01. Reevaluate your goals and your career

You may find with lockdown and social distancing you have more time (as you are not out socialising and networking). This can provide you with the breathing space to think. As well as re-evaluating your goals. Think about:

• where you are now and where you want to be?
• Do you feel fulfilled in your current job?
• If not, why not?
• What would you change?
• How can you change it?

While you might be stuck working remotely, that shouldn’t prevent you from continuing to work on your career.

02. Give your Professional Brand a Refresh

How long has it been since you updated LinkedIn profile (or your C.V.)? Take some time to get your professional branding and image updated.

You can read more about this with our Remote Networking Tips Series.

03. Get your Career Journal up to date

Use this time to reflect on your professional achievements and get your Career Journal up to date. Whether you are preparing for an end of year appraisal, looking for a promotion or looking to more jobs whether now or at some point in the future – a complete career journal can really benefit you. So take the time to work on your prompts and update your career journal so that you are ready when opportunities arise.

04. Continue working towards your goals

You should continue working on your goals. If you are looking for a new job or looking for a promotion you should still be working on these goals. You just might need to be more creative when it comes to achieving your goals.

05. Plan your next move

Finally, plan your next move.

This isn’t a time to take a break from your career. Instead, use this time to strategically plan your next move. By focusing on how to move your career forward, you will be better positioned to take advantage of opportunities when the situation inevitably bounces back.