The steps that will help you transition into a new career are experience and planning. Several employers will tell you that you are not qualified because you lack the experience. Yet as a student, you cannot get experience without having on the job training. So, you should actively seek internships in the area of your degree that will give you the experience you need to land that job and make the transition from student to careerist.
A good plan is always needed; an Ascension plan that is. Once you have made the decision to enter the job market or just to be promoted, you need to sit down and create a fast-track plan for your career. The Ascension plan will become the road map for your career’s journey. Granted, plans tend to change so when they do, just make sure you create an amended version.
The difference between thriving and coping during a career transition is being able to deal with the issues surrounding a transition and having the knowledge it takes to turn those issues into opportunities that will allow you to flourish. Coping with a stressful transition can be overwhelming and the obstacles may outweigh the prize. But do not lose sight that there is a prize (your new position). After the
transition is complete, life will return to normal. I would like to suggest Reinhold Niebuhr's Serenity Prayer if you are at all religious. It goes a little something like this:
God, give us grace to accept with serenity the things that cannot be changed,
Courage to change the things which can be changed,
And the wisdom to distinguish the one from the other.
If you are not a religious person, might I suggest reviewing Abraham Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs? The focus in this would be self-actualization, self-esteem, acceptance and safety.
The right amount of skills and habits is essential to getting promoted. You need to find the appropriate manner in which to get noticed; for example, exhibiting a great
attitude, pride and passion for your work. A great attitude always surfaces while being a good team player. It also shows commitment to others and sometimes offers the chance to grab a leadership role.
Pinpointing exactly where you want to be in the company is also a plus. Do your research on the particular position and analyze your qualifications. This may present the opportunity for you to enhance your knowledge if you do not qualify for the position at that time. Do what it takes to qualify even if that means returning to school. Once you have completed that task, you should begin marketing your skills. Volunteer for assignments that no one else wants and aim to do an outstanding job. Make sure you choose to help departments that are a level or two above your own. While volunteering, showcase your extensive knowledge of the company and the position that is desired.
Problems are easy to come by, but solutions are how you want to be recognized. So, “be a solution creator not a problem maker.” Being a procrastinator or “slacker” will not get you that promotion and therefore, you will not have a position to transition into. Mentally claim that executive position and act the part. Make sure you understand that staying busy does not mean you are being productive.
Productivity with positive results will definitely get you noticed.
Establish a valuable relationship with your boss and a few others in roles higher than yours. Communicate with your current boss that you desire to be promoted because you do not want to step on anyone while attempting to climb to the top. Stay open-minded and accept all feedback as an opportunity for growth. Everyone has at least one weakness. The first step is acknowledging that it exists and the
second is being able to sell that weakness as a strength.
Keep a record of all accomplishments (especially the ones that have helped increase revenue for the company). Do not be too aggressive in sharing your accomplishments; you have to find a comfortable median. It will shed some light on your worth and commitment to the company, but do not focus too much on past transactions. Try to place your attention on “the now.” The past endeavors are great, but show what you are capable of accomplishing right now or in the near future.
Transitioning at any level can be difficult so “forget about moving up the corporate ladder. [Just] focus on your career” (G. A. Marken). Your ability to quickly adapt to change will build good rapport with your superiors.
As a society, we have been taught that modesty should always be used. Well, if you do not broadcast what you are worth; then, who will? Remember, no one owes you anything and you control your career; make it your priority.
