Whether you’re just getting started in the “real world” or you’ve been working on your career for a few years, these simple tips will keep you motivated to take that next career leap.
1. Never stop learning. Grow your knowledge and your personal confidence. Watch TED talks or listen to podcasts while you’re commuting, read a book during lunch or take an online class. The world is at your fingertips. Take advantage of the free, credible resources around you such as Coursera and Skillshare for creators, or pay for a resource like Lynda.
2. Leave your comfort zone. Get out there and network. Show off your personality, confidence and the expertise you’ve gained thanks to step No. 1. Learn about the business leaders around you. Get your name out there and get to know the community. You know what they say: “it’s all about who you know.” This may help you get your dream job in the future. Here’s an easy one: Join the Chamber for its State of Small Business on Feb. 18 and meet entrepreneurs from across the Denver area.
3. Find a mentor. Most of us are lucky to be surrounded by people with experience and support who are willing to help—in and outside of your office. Use that to your advantage.
4. Be creative. You don’t have to be “creative” to be creative. Exercise your creative muscles, whether through brain games, changing up your routine or trying a new way of doing an everyday task. This will help you think in a new way when you’re looking for solutions. Here are a few ways to get started:
5. Be flexible. Your first job may not be your dream job, but everyone starts somewhere. Find ways to transform your mundane tasks into learning experiences or see them as opportunities to create better, more efficient workflows. Interested in something that isn’t in your job description? It never hurts to ask. Talk to you supervisor about working it into your personal goals.
Maggie McEntee is the communications and marketing specialist for the Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce.
[Photo by Jeff Sheldon]
