How can I have greater success in my career and how can I speed things up? Like many graduates, I thought that as soon as I graduate, I will land a high paying job and move up from there. As many of us know that isn’t always true. By now I have worked at top companies, start-ups, and medium-sized business, and I have noticed the career mobility of many individuals. There are those who move up quickly, others who gradually progress and some stay in the same position for many years. And it does not come down to how smart, hardworking, passionate or charming one is, but something more.
So I have thought about it a lot, which determines the rate of progression in one’s career. Hard work obviously plays a key part. It is important to put in the work to build soft and hard skills. And of course, passion and determination motivate individuals to work harder. Yet with all these three components, one’s career can always hit a glass ceiling. Why?
Because one doesn’t allow themselves to be exposed to new opportunities. I have seen smart, hard workers stay in the same position for a long time. They don’t realize that finding ways to explore new opportunities that can lead to greater success. A new environment can lead to promotions or a position that can better utilize their skill set. Or new opportunities allow one to diversify their skill set to become better at their career.
And this does not only apply to those who have employers, but the same also goes for business owners. While hard work is important for the business to succeed, exposure for opportunities to market or network can bring new growth to the business.
They are many ways to expose one’s self to new opportunities. Such as switching companies, departments or positions. This change of environment allows for new opportunities. Networking is a great way to be presented with new opportunities. Join the company social or group gathering, attend alumni or career networking events, or just starting a conversation with other co-workers and executives
This is not a one-time thing, this has to be a constant goal for oneself. To find new opportunities and work hard is the key to a successful career.
