When it comes to advancing in the workplace, women have it tough. Moving up is a challenge, and it takes a great deal of work to get results. Follow these tips and you can advance your career with less effort.
1. Market Yourself
If you want to move up, you need to put yourself out there. This means looking for job opportunities and applying for them. It also means networking
As you try to market yourself, look online for job postings. Social media is a great way to find employment opportunities. If you look in the right places, you can find life-changing opportunities. Just be sure you’re always taking a step forward.
This doesn’t necessarily mean moving up in the industry. In some cases, a lateral move could help you. For example, a lateral move could teach you new skills that could help you in a management role.
2. Advance Your Education
By advancing your education, you can make yourself more promotable. However, don’t sign up for that Masters degree just yet. There are other ways to advance your education.
You can start by looking into online courses and certifications that can help your career. If they are free, you should take the initiative and start learning. If they cost money, then talk to your employer. Your employer might be happy to spend a few hundred dollars. In exchange for the money, your employer gets an employee who is better at her job. It also shows your boss that you take the initiative to better yourself.
Depending on your industry, you might want to consider advancing your degree. If you have an Associate’s, consider getting a Bachelor’s. When the time comes, you will have the educational credentials you need to move forward.
3. Have Clearly Defined Goals
If you want to advance your career as a woman, you need goals. The only way for you to move forward is to follow a clearly defined plan.
Sit down and brainstorm. Think about your ultimate plan. What is your ideal position? Once you know that, you can write down the steps you need to get there.
Assess your skills and think about your weaknesses. If you want to reach the top, you need to address those weaknesses. Include every detail in your plan. Then, you can work towards following the plan and achieving your ultimate goal.
A plan is also a great way to stay motivated. If you start to feel as if your work is for nothing, look at your plan. It can be a reminder of the bright future you have waiting for you.
4. Get a Mentor
When you have a mentor, you have someone to help you push through the challenges of advancing your career. A mentor can tell you what to expect and how to handle any upcoming challenges. It prevents you from doing everything on your own.
When you search for a mentor, look for someone who works in your industry. The mentor should be someone you admire and respect. Additionally, look for someone who can help you identify your strengths and weaknesses. With the right mentor, you can go anywhere.
Thanks to Brad Richardson
Four Tips to Advancing Your Career as a Woman
September 21, 2018 by