Building a career is a challenge. You and your coworkers are all trying to get ahead. The best way to do so is to make sure that you are doing your job as well as can be expected, while finding ways to help your employer look good. There are many ways to lift yourself out of the pack and get noticed by those who can advance your career.
Basics
To build your career, start with the basics. Always arrive at work on time and ready to go. Dress appropriately at all times, and spend most, if not all, of your work hours performing the tasks you were assigned to do. Don't spend time gossiping, surfing the Internet or making personal phone calls when there is work to be done.
Attitude
How you perform your duties is equally important. There is a big difference between an enthusiastic employee who is positive and one who constantly whines about the task at hand and about his colleagues. Always leave a positive impression with your colleagues and clients--you never know how it will affect you in the future.
Education
There are almost always courses you can take to increase your value to employers. If you work with computers, enroll in certification programs on the latest technology. If you work in retail, take classes in customer service or management. Many employers will cover education expenses or work your schedule around classes you are taking. Even if you must pay for the courses yourself, taking them will open new opportunities for you.
Networking
Virtually every industry has a professional organization, at both the local and the national level. These are excellent means for keeping up on the latest news in your industry and learning about positions opening in other companies. Find the groups related to your field and join them. Play an active role: Volunteer to organize events or to publicize them. If the group adopts a local road, be part of the group that goes to pick up litter. Over time, your contributions will be noticed.
Referrals
Use every opportunity to get references. If you have performed truly outstanding work for your employer, ask your boss for a letter of reference when you leave. Use social networking sites to link to past and current coworkers and classmates. They may let you know when new positions open and help you get your foot in the door.
Patience
As with any major effort, building a career takes time. You won't become president of your trade organization by showing up to one meeting. You won't become senior vice president by only doing what's listed in your entry-level job description. But by performing consistently well over time, you can build a great career.
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