top 3 Mistakes holding you back from career success

Happy New Year!  Are you ready to work on your career this year?  Lots of us are sitting around making resolutions and one of the most popular, next to working on health, is getting more career success.  That could be either getting a new job or landing a new promotion.  It's totally normal to think about it.  After all, your career won’t manage itself. But, here's my twist.  If you're looking to create career success this year, here are my top three tips on what NOT to do!

Avoid making these mistakes if you're ready for more career success:

• First, don't undervalue your worth. Stop being afraid to ask for a raise or a promotion if you deserve it. You will never receive more than you demand - especially from work. If you’re content to stay in the same place and make the same salary, they’re happy to accommodate you. If you're happy overworking and complaining privately to friends about being underpaid, you're just setting yourself up for unhappiness.  Don't do it.  Once you've prepared for the conversation (and this is where I help lots of professionals), set up the meeting with your boss, and then make your case.  After, if they don't express appreciation for your contributions, it may be time to make a move. But, at least, you've shared your worth and value.

 

• Second, don't fail to toot your own horn. If you’re doing good work, ensure the word gets out. Take advantage of LinkedIn and keep your activities updated. Do your peers know what you’re up to? Let everyone know how great you are. And, no, they won't just automatically know it if you work hard.  It's important for you to share your accomplishments and achievements in order to get noticed.  

 

• Finally, don't fail to take on projects that showcase your strengths. Be willing to be seen. Others will notice, and your reputation will grow. If you're used to sitting back and allowing others to volunteer for leadership roles, try something new by raising your hand.  By taking on projects at work that allow you to showcase your organization or leadership strengths, you gain a strong professional reputation.
  
  

Just know that career success is so much more than landing the next job.  Once you get into it, you've got to keep your skills up and keep being strategic about your career growth. Let 2022 be the year you take control of your career!