What You Have To Do To Move To Next Career Level

By Virginia Foster


Even the most ambitious, goal oriented women hit plateaus in their careers. Some attribute this to the glass ceiling and gender bias. There is a lot of truth to this, but there are some ways you can increase your chances of reaching your business goals that will bypass these hurdles. If you aren't sure how to move to next career level, experts have some good advice and can provide some strategic steps to take on your way up the ladder.

Before you make any moves, you need to take stock of what it is you really want. You might have a great job with a dedicated staff, but dream about stepping up into international business. This might require working abroad or moving into an area that includes international responsibilities. Another woman may have global experience and but really wants to move into a sphere where she is managing a bigger team or crossing over into another division.

It can be a good idea to avoid confiding in your boss. You may think this person has your best interests at heart and will be happy to help you along your way. You might be unpleasantly surprised to learn that your boss is less than enthusiastic about your plans.

Preparing before you make any moves is always a good idea. You could begin volunteering for assignments that will add to your resume. You might find out whether your community college is offering any classes that would be beneficial to the job you are interested in. You may even be able to work with other divisions within your company while remaining in your current position.

Stepping up the ladder means you have to hold your own with corporate executives and others who will become your professional peers. If you haven't assessed your executive presence yet, it is time for you to do so. One of the best ways to evaluate your communication skills and verbal sharpness is to record yourself. You might tape business oriented questions and record your responses.

Finding a sponsor who has already achieved the status you want for yourself can be very important. This should be a person who can introduce you to executives you need to know and can assist you with career opportunities. If you don't already know someone who fits this profile, you might have to do some research, seek a candidate out, and introduce yourself to him or her.

Just because your goals are obvious to you doesn't mean that everyone else knows what they are. You have to let people know what you want and that you are interested in taking on new challenges. You won't get anywhere by hoping someone will understand what you need and volunteer it.

Ambitious women have more professional opportunities than ever before. When you want to achieve something important you have to put a plan together. It takes time, perseverance, professional assistance, smart strategies and a lot of luck, but you can make it.




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