How to Advance Your Career: 6 Useful Tips

The COVID pandemic isn’t finished impacting the way Americans work. 65% of Americans are looking for a new job. COVID has shifted priorities, and workers seek better benefits, pay, and careers that better suit them. 

There are more opportunities for those seeking to advance their career. Record number of job openings could provide you with the change you’ve been waiting for. But, although the opportunity is there, are you in the right position to take advantage of it? 

If you’re not sure where to start your career journey, read on for six tips for how to advance your career. 

1. Determine Your Career Path 

When choosing a career path, it’s best to do some self-reflection to determine what type of work you find meaningful and what you value. Make sure your career goal is something you are pursuing for you and not because of someone else’s advice. You know what will make you happy in life, and there is no point wasting time on goals you don’t believe in. 

2. Set Goals to Outline How to Advance Your Career 

Once you’ve decided on the best path for you, the next step is to create a path to achieve them. List out your short and long-term goals. Then, outline different steps and skills you will need to develop to achieve those goals.  

3. Get Certified in a New Skill 

You may need specific skills that you don’t currently have to advance your career. One way to get those necessary skills is to take certification courses. A certification can bolster your resume and make you a more appealing candidate when finding a job. 

The best certifications will set you apart from other job seekers.

For example, the six sigma black belt certification allows you to improve your process skills. These process skills help you create a more efficient workplace and boost your own efficiency, resulting in better customer service and satisfaction. If you take the initiative and improve company results, you can set yourself up for success in your company. 

4. Grow and Manage Your Network 

Networking is a great way to learn, meet others, and get those all-important referrals. You can network online or at networking events. Be proactive in reaching out to people in the position you want to have and learn what they are doing right. 

Also, you want to keep in touch with your networking contacts regularly. They will be more likely to help you out if you keep in touch rather than only reach out to them when you need something. 

5. Use Your Benefits 

Although most people use the healthcare and retirement benefits companies provide, companies often offer more benefits you might overlook. For example, many employers offer job training or education assistance to help you advance your skills. You can leverage these programs to learn a new skill that makes you more appealing for that promotion. 

Your workplace also provides you with the opportunity to learn from those above you. Take advantage of this by talking to them and asking them questions on how to grow. Finding a mentor can help you smoothly navigate your career path.  

6. Take Care of Yourself 

Advancing your career takes time and effort, but while you are growing, you don’t want to ignore your physical, mental, and emotional needs. So eat right, get eight hours of sleep, and take breaks when you need them.

Failure to do so can lead to health issues and burnout that hinder your career goals. 

Take the Next Step Toward Advancing Your Career

Once you have a sound idea of what you want to be doing, begin learning and growing your skills. There are numerous ways to grow and put yourself in a better position for your dream job. The best tip to achieve your career goals is to stop asking how to advance your career and take the initiative.

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