Get Yourself Noticed for all the Right Reasons

You don’t want to be seen as a foot-soldier but as someone with strategic perspective, able to make tough decisions. It's never too early to start planning your rise through the ranks. Many falsely believe that 'sucking up' to the boss gets you places, but that’s only true in the worst managed organizations. You shouldn’t want to work in those kinds of places. Climbing the corporate ladder is not achieved without a great deal of hard work. You can't expect opportunities to come to you. You have to find them, or make them, and keep your skills refreshed and up to date.

How can you raise your profile and credibility within the organisation? If you want a solid career it's essential to develop and exhibit good leadership skills. The people who are really successful are those who are well connected. Build effective connections – develop your networking skills. The people skills you develop through networking are essential as you move into more senior positions and will give you a competitive advantage over the course of a career.

Think seriously about the people you know and how they might influence your career and the strength of your relationship with each of them. Focus on those who have the potential to impact on your career. Develop your profile within the organisation and make sure you are visible to those who matter, ally yourself with people who can help you, building relationships with those who have influence.

Do some external networking so that you can present a cogent view of what is leading edge for other businesses. If you want to climb the career ladder with confidence you must appreciate the bigger picture. You need to be able to distinguish between what’s really important and things that will have no real impact on the company’s bottom line. Be vigilant, ready to spot and respond to opportunities. Seek assignments outside your area of expertise or normal job responsibilities. Initiative and well-rounded skills will impress your managers and increase your visibility within the company making you someone for management to watch and develop.

Opportunities to advance don't always fall into your lap: Be proactive in asking for them. To succeed in the fast moving, modern business environment taking charge of your own career is an imperative. Market yourself as a product and campaign accordingly, whether planning your next move, climbing the career ladder or reinventing your life.  

What skills do you need to make yourself more marketable? Take advantage of every opportunity for continuous learning and professional development. Need a new qualification, to learn Mandarin Chinese, or some coaching in leadership skills?  Look for a competitive advantage, what are other professionals in your field are offering?  Can you differentiate yourself by offering something extra, different or unique? 

Don’t let your career just happen but take a proactive and targeted approach to maximise your potential and meet your aspirations. Take charge of your career and you’ll get more fulfilment from its challenges and with commitment you can achieve your ideal lot in life. You are responsible for your own future.