In order to have the success you desire in your career you have to have a plan. Career planning is about setting realistic goals and determining the steps you must take in order to reach those goals. It is never too early or too late in your career to create a career plan. Doing so can help you gain a more firm direction and better your chances of success at work.
Step 1
Start by jotting down some notes on what you want and need out of your career. This can help you get your mind in the right place for career planning. Quintessential Careers recommends making a two-column list noting the things that you like about your career and the things you dislike about your career. If your "dislike" column is longer than your "like" column, it may be time for you to create a completely new career plan and change directions.
Step 2
Evaluate your needs. Your career is just one aspect of your life but it can affect other important areas of life as well. If you have a family, you may need to evaluate your need to work a decent schedule so you can be there for your children. If fitness is important to you, it may be beneficial for you to have an active career, or one in which your schedule allows for gym time.
Step 3
Take your lifestyle into consideration. Quintessential Careers recommends considering your current lifestyle or the lifestyle you want and modifying your career plan to fit the lifestyle that you want. If you are hoping to buy a home in the next five years, you may want to consider the executive fast-track program that your employer offers. If you are happy with your current lifestyle you may have the freedom to explore other avenues and roles within your chosen career field.
Step 4
Start with short-term goals. Write them down on paper. Whether your short-term goals are a new office at work, a 10-percent raise or quitting your current job and starting a career in a different field, write them down.
Step 5
Move on to your long-term goals. These are things like a six-figure salary within the next five years or opening your own office in another city. Any goals that you have that are more than one year into the future should be included in this category.
Step 6
Locate a job listing for a position similar to the one you are aiming for. Take note of the qualifications and prerequisites for the position. Cross off the qualities you already possess and make a list of those that you need. You may have several years of experience as a manager, but the career of your dreams may require a master's degree. Create a checklist denoting the things that you need to do to maximize your chances of having the type of career you desire.
Step 7
Better your skills and increase your knowledge. Career Overview recommends career training and education for anyone looking to advance in their career. Check out local vocational schools or colleges in your area to see if they have the program you need. Consider accredited online schools as well. Research the programs with the best graduation and career placement rates for best results.
Step 8
Better your skills and increase your knowledge. Career Overview recommends career training and education for anyone looking to advance in their career. Check out local vocational schools or colleges in your area to see if they have the program you need. Consider accredited online schools as well. Research the programs with the best graduation and career placement rates for best results.
Step 9
Put your plan into action. Once you have written down the steps you need to take to reach your goal, the only thing left to do is follow them. Enroll in school, talk to your company's hiring manager about other opportunities or do whatever else you need to do to work toward your goal based on the career plan you have outlined.
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