Captain Jack Sparrow might like to wave opportunities as they pass by. That’s because he’s a pirate. And he lacks the drive to look to the future.
While saying “yes” to career-defining moments is important in moving you forward, setting yourself up for a “big opportunity” requires more effort than just passively waiting which means a great deal of initiative.
Get clarity on your career
Driving forward full-force is important in reaching the next level in your career, but it is far more helpful if you are headed in the right direction. Sitting down and really thinking about what it is that you are after is crucial in setting yourself up for success.
Pin-point what you want your career to look like and make sure all of your objectives are aligned to that. This can mean thinking about things such as whether you want to work with a small team or be leading a major organisation. Positioning yourself in the right direction right now will make a huge impact on your career ten years down the line.
Be intention and stay focused
Once you have an idea of what you want in your career, keep that idea in the forefront of your mind. Even go so far as to write it down and stick it on your desk. Work done with laser-focus is much more likely to help land your ‘Big Opportunity’ moment.
Work with excellence in mind
When you work, it should be done in such a way that you can’t help but beam afterwards. “Now this was some outstanding work” is something you should strive to think about – and often. Not only will it equip to work excellently more often, but it will also give you a sense of pride and satisfaction. Who can’t help but want that?
Take care of yourself
This is advice one often hears, but seldom takes. While making sure you are doing your very best work professionally, also make sure you do very best to take care of yourself outside the office too. This means ensuring that you are keeping a healthy balance in all spheres of life. If you are feeling strung out on a consistent basis, it’s possible that you are going to miss an important moment.
Flaunt your strengths
If you are looking to move forward in your career, make sure that ‘Be Humble’ remains a song and not your motto. Showing that you are confident in your abilities will do wonders in the way that you see yourself. Not only is the resultant work remarkable, but it also shows executives that you know that you are good and they’ll see it too.
Stay on the radar
This goes hand-in-hand with that sweet, sweet confidence. Speak up in meetings and throw in your two cents. It doesn’t have to be a sales pitch every time you voice an opinion, but if you are able to back yourself in what you think, your ideas will be able to speak for themselves.
We know, putting yourself in a position where you are seen, heard, and acknowledged can be scary. But it will help get you to a place where decision-makers will think of you first for those Big Opportunities.
Build positive relationships
Find people that you can rely on to build you up. The best way to find an amazing opportunity is to connect with a person who knows where it might be. Take time to meet up with those you consider key leaders in your industry and get to know their journey; it’s likely going to end up helping you on yours.
