Taking charge of your growth plan

By Peter Kamuri

Ever wondered where you want to be by the end of this year? The overwhelming majority will say they want to be in the next rung and ultimately, to be at the top.

But most of these people might not achieve this success because they will you fail to take charge of their career growth plan.

There are a number of ways you can take control of your career growth goals. One way is to look for a career coach who can guide you into how best you can achieve your career objectives.

Skilled Professional

This is usually a professional who is experienced in a particular area, and can equip you with skills that can make you do better.

For example, someone whose work involves presentations to colleagues or clients, but has been receiving complaints that their skills in public speaking are wanting can turn to an expert in public speaking to improve on their presentations.

Mentors also come in handy when you are looking for ways to improve and realise your career goals.

Most companies and organisations today have mentoring programmes managed by experienced people, whose work is to advise and counsel employees on a number of work and career related issues.

Going back to school is also a good way towards improving your career growth plan. Look around you for the training opportunities available. Talk to friends or colleagues about the openings available or try an Internet search.

Upgrade Yourself

Its important to note that learning opportunities should not just be limited to attending classes.

You can try to upgrade your knowledge by reading books, magazines or looking for information from relevant websites.

If your work schedule is not flexible, go for part-time studies in local public universities and colleges that offer continuing education programmes or enroll for online courses.

Joining professional association can also boost your chances of meeting your career goals. Look around for such bodies exist near you, and then enroll and attend their annual meetings and be involved in their activities. Get access to their newsletters and journals to keep yourself informed about industry news.

You can also develop a good working relationship with your boss is also helpful. Let him know what plans you have and your career aspirations, and the goals and the skills you are developing.

You might be surprised at how he will be impressed and he may end up supporting you in a big way.

Remain Committed

However, should your boss fail to appreciate and support you in what you are doing, do not be frustrated. Remain committed to your plans and goals.

What matters most to you are the career goals you have set and the way to achieve them.