6 Mistakes that CAN Kill your career

Your career won’t manage itself. Even if you’re a superstar at work, it’s possible to make mistakes that harm, or even end, your career. You spend a lot of time at work. It would be a shame to undo all of your effort by making an easily avoidable mistake. I've seen lots of great women stumble in the workplace unnecessarily.
 
Here's how to avoid six critical mistakes that harm your career:
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• Undervaluing your worth. Avoid being afraid to ask for a raise or a promotion if you deserve it. Many organizations will not give you more than you demand. If you’re content to stay in the same place and make the same salary, they’re happy to accommodate you. Be assertive about your asks, but stop short of being a renegade with a chip on her shoulder.  If you determine you are not being valued, then you can always look for another opportunity.  

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• Failing to toot your own horn. If you’re doing good work, make sure the word gets out. Take advantage of LinkedIn and keep your activities, honors, and publications updated. Do your peers know what you’re up to? Let everyone know how great you are. Don't be too proud to brag, especially on your resume.  Volunteer for projects that highlight your strengths.  Others will notice and your professional brand will begin to grow.  

 

• Gossiping. Talking about others is generally a mistake. Whether it’s social or professional, avoid speaking about other people unless you have something positive to say. Everyone has been negatively impacted by oversharing at some point. Discuss ideas, yourself, and the other person taking part in the conversation.

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• Failing to make your boss look good. At the end of the day, you’re there to help your supervisor achieve the organization's goals. If you’re making her look good, your job is secure. If you’re not, you’re not doing your job properly. I know it sounds like old school advice, but trust me, when you learn the importance of good team play and sharing the spotlight you're one step closer to achieving your own goals.  
  
  
• Being too negative. There’s no place at work for anyone that complains or criticizes nonstop. Try to maintain high standards and your own integrity. If you can’t think of anything positive to say, it might be time to find new employment. 

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• Searching for another job on company time. Your organization is likely to check your internet log from time to time. If you’re spending hours each day on Indeed.com or usajobs.gov, you might find your employment ending. This is particularly important for those of you working for the private sector.  Search for a new career on your own time.

 
Take it from me: It can take a lifetime to build a great career, but it only takes a little to ruin it. Avoid making the mistakes that can derail your career. Remain professional and value your worth. If you’re thinking about another career, keep your search to yourself. You can share after you’ve secured a new position or hired a great career coach.  Be proactive and see your career blossom instead of fade.  

What do you think about these mistakes?  Have you ever made one?  How did you recover?  Share your comments below!  And for more in-depth coaching tips, grab my FREE "5 Mistakes That Hurt A Woman's Career E-Guide" from the home page at www.envisioncareersuccess.com.