At the beginning of a new year, many of us make resolutions to improve our lives.
Often these are career goals that we want to achieve, but instead of simply writing ‘find a new job’, ‘get a promotion’ or ‘earn more money’, here are some of the resolutions you should be making to jumpstart your career in 2019.
1. Grow your network
A strong network will help broaden your employment opportunities and professional relationships, which can lead to career advancement. Start by attending more industry conferences, workshops and presentations. You will not only learn more about your field, but also meet new people. Even non-industry events such as fundraisers can help build your network. Utilise platforms such as LinkedIn, which also allows you to connect with like-minded people, join groups and share interesting content with your network.
2. Be more organised
Following the holidays, many of us return to the office only to find our inbox clogged and our desk cluttered. The start of the new year is the perfect opportunity to get things in order. Take the time to find a system that works for you because organisation can ultimately help improve productivity. It allows us to think more clearly and stay focused on the job at hand by minimising distractions.
3. Find a mentor and become one
Great mentors help guide, coach and motivate you to reach new heights in your career. If you haven’t already found yourself a mentor, now is the time to do so. Look for someone you admire, who has knowledge of your industry and most importantly has the time to help you. Share your work goals, ask for advice and forge a career plan. Similarly, you might be able to pass on your experiences to others by becoming a mentor. It can help you develop into a better leader, gain a new perspective on the industry from the younger generation and shape someone else’s future.
4. Take more risks
Failing to take risks is often the biggest mistake you can make in your career. While it’s important to make considered and calculated decisions, don’t be afraid to take risks when an opportunity arises. There are many people who decide not to go for a contract or their dream job simply because they don’t meet all of the desired requirements. This doesn’t mean you should lie. Instead, focus on what you can bring to the table and why you’re up to the challenge.
5. Upskill
Change is constant so it’s important to continue to upskill whenever you can. Increase your knowledge by enrolling in a workshop or course and ask your employer for extra training on the job. It will help you stay ahead of the curve and meet new demands. Upskilling also helps retain staff as it’s investing in their education and development.
Sheree Mutton is a freelance journalist and the Founder and Managing Director of media agency, Reeton Media, which specialises in content marketing and creation, communications; and copywriting. She has written for The Australian Women’s Weekly, The Sydney Morning Herald, news.com.au and more.
