Year 2014 is already coming to the end of the 1st quarter in about 1.5 months time and for those who have achieved great in 2013 and looking to better and greener pastures in 2014, you have nothing to worry about!
How about those who don't? No worries! Make use of 2014 to start building up your achievements and accomplishments; especially in these uncertain and challenging markets and times.
Many candidates in a challenging job market settle in their job and do not even consider changing jobs. They may choose to believe that jobs are scarce so why bother. That can lead to complacency.
Are you in that mindset? Are you playing your “A Game” or just laying low and meeting company standards?
I am here to say, “Wake up! In any job market, especially a challenging market, you must bring it!” You don’t know when the next lay-off announcement will come. On the flip side, you don’t know the big opportunities that you are missing in your company and beyond.
Let’s talk about how you can accomplish more at work, how you can go beyond your job description, and how you can prepare yourself for your next job. We will start working on your 2014 resume, today!
1.) Come to work every day with the intention of being the best you can be. Treat each customer – internal or external – like gold. They are gold as they are responsible for your paycheck and your future promotions. This is the attitude of a successful person.
2.) Perform a skill and knowledge check. Go to online boards and check your skills with those required in the marketplace. Ask your manager if she or he recommends any additional training, certifications, or work experience to elevate your performance. Integrate these target skills into your written personal goal statement, including a firm timeline for achievement.
3.) Does your company or your industry associations present awards or hold annual contests? Take advantage of those opportunities.
4.) Are there active task forces within your company? Or, perhaps your company has a quality board? Get involved in these ongoing improvement committees. They are a great way to work on corporate or department-wide efforts in which you can build relationships and accomplishments.
5.) Volunteer for new assignments. Perhaps you are not ready to lead a large project. However, volunteer to be a key contributor or to lead a portion of a project. Don’t wait to be asked. Talk to your manager privately about ways you can take on new assignments or lead efforts. Your manager may not be aware of your desire to reach beyond your daily functions.
This may seem like a daunting list to tackle. Break it down into manageable goals that you can attain on a quarterly basis. By end of 2014, you will have gained considerable skills and experience. As you accomplish new things, update your resume. Be bold and commit yourself to excellence!
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