𝙉𝙤𝙫𝙚𝙢𝙗𝙚𝙧 𝙞𝙨 𝙉𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣𝙖𝙡 𝘾𝙖𝙧𝙚𝙚𝙧 𝘿𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙡𝙤𝙥𝙢𝙚𝙣𝙩 𝙈𝙤𝙣𝙩𝙝.
“Career development is the process of self-knowledge, exploration, and decision-making that shapes your career.” (Source: The Balance) In other words, career development is not a “once and done” thing; it’s a lifelong process that’s essential for ensuring your job satisfaction and meeting your true potential.
With this in mind, this month should be dedicated to your personal reflection, self-discovery, and intentional career development. It’s an opportunity to focus on your professional growth and align your career path with your values, skills, and personal aspirations.
𝗛𝗲𝗿𝗲 𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝘀𝗼𝗺𝗲 𝘀𝘂𝗴𝗴𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝘁𝗮𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗼𝘄𝗻𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗽 𝗼𝗳 𝗬𝗢𝗨𝗥 𝗰𝗮𝗿𝗲𝗲𝗿 𝗱𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹𝗼𝗽𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁:
- Create a plan for where you’d like to be and then establish SMART career goals to get there.
- Adopt a growth mindset by taking advantage of as much professional development (webinars, training programs, certificates, etc.) as possible!
- Stay on top of industry news and trends. The more you know, the more you grow!
- Be actively involved in professional associations related to your profession. Many associations have local chapters so you can attend meetings or conferences in your area. Even better, become a volunteer with your local chapter.
- Volunteer for new projects at work. What better way to learn something new and show your team spirit?
- Keep your network alive. Start with people you already know, and reach out to folks who are doing what you’d like to do next.
- Ask for feedback from colleagues and supervisors. What do they view as your strengths and areas for improvement?
- Find a mentor and/or a sponsor. A mentor answers your questions, but a sponsor advocates for your future.
- Learn about the latest digital tools and technologies related to your role.
- Join (or create) an Employee Resource Group (ERG) to engage in continuous learning with like-minded coworkers.
- Update (or start) your personal “Accomplishments File” with your achievements and awards from this year.
- Volunteer for a cause that’s near and dear to your heart.
Make no mistake, your career development is more crucial than ever in today’s competitive job market. By embracing these strategies, you can turn National Career Development Month into a springboard for your future success, ensuring a fulfilling career journey.
Shelley Maley, PHR, GCDF
Dreamcatcher Career Coaching, LLC
www.dreamcatchercareercoaching.com
(610) 663-0585
Communications Chairperson – Pennsylvania Career Development Association (PACDA)
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