Managing Your Career: It's Time to Take Control

The job market has evolved rapidly over the past 20 years, even over the past 20 months.  Few positions offer true job security and fewer still will offer you a long term professional development track. 

This might feel uncomfortable until you realize the most important truth: your career is in your control.

Today’s professionals have more options than ever.  The challenge isn’t finding possibilities, it’s creating a strategy to connect to them.  By staying intentional and following a simple framework, you can uncover opportunities faster, navigate change with confidence, and build a career that aligns with what matters most.

Three principles can help:

Know who you are.

Build your community.

Stay visible and relevant.

WHO ARE YOU?

Many people start their narrative with a job title.:  “I am a journalist.”

But, titles can be limiting and only focused on where you are now or where you have been.

“I am a storyteller who loves sharing the experiences of people in my community.  I want to broaden my scope to tell stories of people making an impact globally.”

What's the difference? The second narrative opens the door to curiosity, different industries and types of opportunities.

Take the time to develop clarity around your story, your aptitudes, skills and values.  The most compelling career stories are not built around titles or roles but around purpose and aspiration.

WHO ARE YOUR FRIENDS?

If the word networking makes you feel squeamish. Think instead about creating a community of people who support, challenge and inspire you. 

• Cultivate relationships with people who share your values and interests

• Stay connected with former colleagues, managers, mentors, and advocates

• Participate in organizations, volunteer projects, alumni groups, and community initiative where you can make a difference

The best career opportunities typically come through trusted relationships, not job boards.  The community you build stays with you as a sounding board, support system, and pipeline for new relationships and roles down the road.

ARE YOUR EYES OPEN? CAN YOU BE SEEN?

Professionals who are open to change are rarely caught off guard and are poised for pivots when opportunity comes knocking. And, opportunity tends to find people who are paying attention.

• Invest in learning through continuing education, podcasts, books, and professional       development.

• Be alert to shifts in your industry and look for signs that your expertise may becoming commoditized.

• Develop niche skills that keep you relevant or specialized.

• Keep your tools current including your LinkedIn profile, resume, and portfolio.

• Share your ideas through writing, speaking, volunteering, or showcasing your work.

• Be visible. Attend events, engage with others, and seek out people who challenge your thinking.

The professionals who have the best jobs aren’t just lucky.  They are intentional and manage what they want to do and with whom very carefully. 

Your career is one of the longest adventures you'll ever take. Don't leave it to chance.

Take the wheel and decide where you want to go next.