The Roman philosopher Seneca has a quote about how luck happens when preparation meets opportunity. When it comes to your career, this is so very true. If you spend your time waiting for an advancement to fall into your lap, you'll often be disappointed.
No matter how many stories you hear about someone who is promoted frequently, there are just as many stories of people who have languished in the same role for years. Often, the former have spent time growing skills, networking, and being open to change while the later have just been focused on their job duties.
Preparation. In previous episodes, I've covered several ways that you can prepare so that when opportunity comes, you can take it.
- As covered in Episode 003 Find a mentor that has been where you are. Having "been you", they can speak to what steps they took to get to the next level. They can guide you through the technical and political skills you need to develop.
- Document your work as described in Episode 005 so that others can follow behind you when you move to a new opportunity. If there is no one else to take over your tasks, you will miss out on many opportunities. Probably the worst feeling is knowing that you were ready for an opportunity, but you were passed over because you were "too critical" for your current job.
- In Episode 012, I addressed listening to feedback and using it to improve. Not only will people recognize your willingness to adapt and change, but they will also see you as more capable of doing the "next" job.
- Additionally, continue to study so that you have the skills and knowledge you need when an opportunity presents itself.
Opportunity. Don't wait for opportunity to come to you, seek it out.
- Prepare your IDP from Episode 002. Understanding where you want your career to go and the roadmap to get there will help you recognize opportunities that may be less obvious. Pay attention to when there may be lateral shifts today that may provide larger opportunities in the future. For example, a shift to a different organization or manager at your current company could present more challenging work or be an area with faster growth.
- Hold regular one-on-ones with your leader using the structure from Episode 011 and communicate your career plan. Having your manager on your side will give you someone else helping identify opportunities. Knowing that you have a desire for something different will allow your manager to consider you for opportunities that he may not have expected you to
