A long time ago, I was given career tips that helped me become a more valuable employee and a highly recruitable professional.
These career tips translated to confidence in asking for pay raises and applying for internal and external job postings. Follow these tips to help you achieve your income and career mobility goals.
1. Change your mindset
The perception of our work environment plays a key role in how we feel and perform at work. Unfortunately, when you are unhappy nothing an employer might do will change how you feel. You might feel stifled, unchallenged, or simply neglected. These feelings can impact your productivity and performance. And lead to a perception by your manager that you’re an underperformer.
Focus on the positive aspects of your job. If there aren’t many, then it’s time to switch employers. But make sure you continue to give 100% at your current job while you hunt for a new employer.
My pro tip: Underperforming at your current job isn’t sticking it to your employer. It might actually lead to disciplinary actions and early termination.
2. Speak with your manager
This may be hard for many but speaking with your manager about your career aspiration is important. Let your manager know about your plan to grow within the company. Ask them about a career development track or job shadowing opportunities.
Keep an eye for internal openings. Involve your manager about any position you’re interested in. A manager will want to develop you to become an asset to the company, not just an employee in a department you’ve outgrown.
My pro tip: If you’ve been passed over for promotions or lateral moves into a different department, then you have documents and talking points to address with them. If it becomes necessary, you’ll also have something concrete to share with their manager or Human Resources.
3. Update your resume
Don’t wait until you are searching for a new job to update your resume. It’s hard to remember all the accomplishments and skills you’ve attained through the years. The key is to update your resume yearly or as accomplishments happen.
My pro tip: An editable document available on the cloud (such as Google document, Word, or Evernote) is helpful to track your progress. When you’re ready to apply for an internal job or search for a new job, you’ll have updated and specific information to include in your resume.
4. Update your LinkedIn profile
Recruiters hunt for top talent online and LinkedIn is a go-to-place. At least once a month, I’m contacted by recruiters about job opportunities. Update your LinkedIn profile every quarter. Make sure your profile reflects your current skills, experience, and accomplishments.
Write a compelling introduction that shows your passion, personality, and career goals. Use relevant keywords relating to the job and industry you want.
My pro tip: Be mindful of what you post on LinkedIn as your coworkers and managers may be linked to you. With routine updates to your LinkedIn profile, you won’t raise any red flags of an impending departure.
5. Share your industry and professional insights
Become a thought leader in your industry and profession by sharing insights about the latest trends. Share your thoughts with a LinkedIn post or article. You can reference articles you’ve read with a reflection on how they related to your profession.
As a result, you’ll be seen as someone in the forefront of your industry and profession. That can lead to growing professional connections and an increased likelihood of being seen by a recruiter.
My pro tip: Read an interesting article about a new law or industry trend online? Share on LinkedIn along with your summary and thoughts on its impact on your industry or profession.
6. Know the job market
Even if you love your job, gaining new skills are important to remain at the top of your profession. Read trade publications and professional blogs. Join LinkedIn groups related to your profession, career, and industry. This gives you access to up-to-date information and an opportunity to network.
Consider looking at job opportunities and speak with recruiters or hiring managers. Doing so, as practice, can give you insights on what skills or experiences are on-demand and required for certain positions.
My pro tip: Get feedback from recruiters and create a blueprint for developing high demand skills that can help you negotiate a salary increase or land a new job.
7. Increase your skills
Never stop learning. Always seek to find ways to increase your expertise in your chosen field. Get to know what is happening within your profession. Take advantage of all employer workshops and educational opportunities.
Some employers pay for certifications and continuing education programs. It’s your responsibility to know what skills are needed for your current job and experience you’ll need to gain a promotion.
My pro tip: Every time you gain a new skill or experience, you become more valuable. No one can take your skills or experiences away from you. It’s something you can take with you as you move up in your career.
Remember, these tips aren’t meant to encourage you to leave your job. It’s meant to make you a more a leading professional in your field or industry. By making yourself more valuable in your profession, employer, and industry, it can lead to new career opportunities. Giving you a bit more leverage to discuss income and career goals.
