To Take Before Your Move To Next Career Level

By Virginia Foster


Even the most ambitious, goal oriented women hit plateaus in their careers. Some attribute this to the glass ceiling and gender bias. There is a lot of truth to this, but there are some ways you can increase your chances of reaching your business goals that will bypass these hurdles. If you aren't sure how to move to next career level, experts have some good advice and can provide some strategic steps to take on your way up the ladder.

Before you make any moves, you need to take stock of what it is you really want. You might have a great job with a dedicated staff, but dream about stepping up into international business. This might require working abroad or moving into an area that includes international responsibilities. Another woman may have global experience and but really wants to move into a sphere where she is managing a bigger team or crossing over into another division.

It can be a good idea to avoid confiding in your boss. You may think this person has your best interests at heart and will be happy to help you along your way. You might be unpleasantly surprised to learn that your boss is less than enthusiastic about your plans.

Preparing before you make any moves is always a good idea. You could begin volunteering for assignments that will add to your resume. You might find out whether your community college is offering any classes that would be beneficial to the job you are interested in. You may even be able to work with other divisions within your company while remaining in your current position.

As you advance in your career you will be expected to hold your own with corporate executives. To do that, you must have an impressive executive presence. You can start with assessing your communication skills. A lot of experts advise clients to record themselves. You could set up a mock interview, asking the questions, and recording your answers. You need to hear a person who is assertive, enunciates clearly, and avoids bad verbal habits.

Climbing the corporate ladder will be much easier with a sponsor. You need someone to introduce you to people and bring up your name in business situations. If you don't already have someone in mind, who is interested in your career, you may have to target an appropriate person and introduce yourself.

Just because you know what your goals are doesn't mean that anyone else will figure them out spontaneously. When you need help, you usually have to ask for it. It might be as simple as asking for a reference. This is not the time to feel awkward or unworthy of someone's attention.

Women who are serious about their careers have to make choices. Creating a game plan is the best way to realize your goals. It will take perseverance, strategic thinking, the guidance of a sponsor, and a little luck.




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