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Ten guidelines for every level of your profession.
As we go through our early years, we often spend a lot of time considering our future. We think about what it would be like to work in different fields, dreaming of the impact we want to make and plotting the best path forward.
However, once we finish high school, career guidance offices become scarce. Instead, we navigate this area through interactions with mentors and coaches. Seeking career guidance that is tailored to you is the best way to obtain it.
Who should you seek for professional guidance? The first professional mentor I had gave me one of the best pieces of career advice I have ever received. He advised me to find someone who has what I want and ask them how they got it.
This advice goes beyond just achieving a specific goal, position, or salary. He encouraged me to look at the bigger picture. What kind of lifestyle did they lead? Were they able to balance their time effectively? Did their career align with their personal life?
Choosing your path in life is about your own definition of success, not anyone else’s. Connect with someone who is committed to your goals, whatever they may be for you.
How do you seek professional guidance in a smooth and seamless manner? Asking for feedback can be a daunting and intimidating task. Here are three steps to make seeking career assistance easier:
1. Take control of your professional roadmap. Your next career move should come from a plan. Whether you are looking to enhance your skills, explore new opportunities, or make a significant change, coaching can help you gain clarity, confidence, and direction.
2. Ask specific questions. Asking for “advice” may not always yield the answers you are looking for. Having a focused inquiry in mind can take you further.
3. Research their background. While everyone you know may have something to offer, the best guidance often comes from those with firsthand experience.
Invest in the relationship. Valuable advice can come from anyone. Someone at an after-work event may provide life-changing guidance. However, instead of relying on chance, consider asking someone to mentor you or hiring a professional coach.
“It’s the pebble in your shoe; not the mountains ahead to climb that wear you out.” – Muhammad Ali
Analyzing. It is easy to get caught up in the negative aspects of a job you hate. However, hating a job can provide valuable insights into your career goals. Instead of focusing on what you dislike, try listing what a day in your ideal job would look like. Who would you be working with on what kind of projects? How can you make changes to engage in more of what you love? Is there anything about your current job that you enjoy?
Breaking out with a lateral move. If you find yourself feeling stuck, it may be time to explore a lateral shift within your organization. While it may not have the excitement of a promotion, it presents an opportunity to gain new skills and shake up your routine. This shift could reignite your passion for your work.
In conclusion, seeking career guidance is essential at every stage of your professional journey. Whether you are just starting out in your career or looking to make a change later on, guidance from mentors and coaches can provide valuable insights and support. By following these ten guidelines and staying true to your goals, you can navigate your career path with confidence and clarity. Remember, your definition of success is unique to you, so seek guidance that aligns with your vision for the future.
