To stay ahead in these changing and challenging times, we must regularly review our career progress and update our goals and long-term vision. Competition is fierce, change is inevitable, and continuous advances in technology mean we need to make sure our knowledge is relevant and our position as secure as possible.

There are many ways to stay ahead and ensure that you are effectively moving up the career ladder and thus avoid getting stuck on a career plateau that could land you in a dead end.

Here are three simple ways you can take advantage of your career progression:

1. Raise your profile – Networking is key to helping you gain inside knowledge, getting you in front of the right people, and helping you build your professional reputation. Network horizontally and vertically and even in groups outside of your industry. Actively seek out breakfast clubs, conferences, and special interest events that will help you build credibility and expand your horizons. Volunteer for special projects.
2. Be known- Actively meet people outside of your immediate work environment. Make connections across the board, across different departments and locations. Be a person known for your helpfulness and connections, share information, introduce people, stay in the know; this way, you and your reputation will be noticed by important decision makers.
3. develop yourself – Invest in additional training or coaching to give yourself the ability to become even better at what you do. Think presentation skills training, voice training, or even an image consultant to help you dress for success. Any investment in personal development will pay off and give you that huge competitive edge.

It is vital that you are aware that career progression depends on you as an individual and while hard work and diligence are key components in moving up the career ladder, they must be combined with presence and reputation to ensure success.

All the best,

natalie dee

Life coach and executive coach