The workplace has changed and with it the rules for career success. In the old days:
* Your career was predictable.
* The company managed your career.
* A college degree guaranteed a good job.
* Working for a big company meant job security.
* Your goal was to climb the corporate ladder.
* Getting a job was like getting married. You were in it for the long haul.
In the twenty-first century, all that has changed. It’s time to learn and apply the new rules for career success. Today, it is your job to:
1. Take responsibility for your career growth. With constantly changing work and shifting skill requirements, life-long learning is a requirement! Take responsibility for what you learn. It is not the company’s responsibility to teach you new skills or hone the ones you have; that’s your job. Willingly take on assignments that stretch you in new ways; stay current in your field and industry, and seek opportunities for learning both inside and outside your workplace. If you are not spending at least a thousand dollars a year upgrading your skills, you are endangering your opportunities for ongoing career success.
2. Develop plan “B”. It is no longer realistic to believe that any job is completely secure. You must always be developing your marketable skills and scanning the horizon for new ways to remix your skill portfolio. Make the most of your present work situation and create “just in case” plans should you suddenly be in the position of having to make a change.
3. Familiarize yourself with business trends. What is happening in your industry? In related industries? It is crucial to be aware of key trends in business, society, and politics. Read the business section of the newspaper and check online news sources to identify trends that will affect your industry now and in the near future.
4. Build relationships at work, professionally and socially. Get to know your peers, solicit their ideas, and support them whenever you can. Join a professional association and attend meetings regularly. Build your network now. Don’t wait until you “need” to network, it’s too late then. Take time to thank people for referrals or interest in your work. Congratulate folks when their company, industry or community recognizes them. Make a list of people who aren’t in your network but should be. Use your resources to connect with them today!
5. Create a financial freedom map. In today’s uncertain economy to makes sense to reduce, reuse, recycle and most all, reconsider the way you use and spend your financial resources. Before making that next discretionary purchase, ask “How much will this really cost me?” When you factor in the time and money you spend on clothing, commuting and daycare, you will be amazed at how little you are making per hour. You may decide that spur-of-the-moment purchase isn’t worth the price. Look for innovative ways to generate multiple streams of income. That way when one source dries up, for example, you lose your job or the market for your service declines; you still have the freedom to make choices about your work and life.
Today you have choices. You can choose to take charge of your career and develop your personal career success strategy, or not. Organizations are looking for “A” list talent in order to succeed in the global marketplace. Only those willing to take charge of their career need apply.
If you found this article valuable, imagine how much I can personally help you with your job search, career transition, or career success strategy by offering ideas, coaching, and advice for your unique situation. Contact me at 831.657.9151 or 
