Tis the Christmas season with its usual round of social events which in itself can be a source of anxiety for some, or inspiration for others. Being an introvert I tend to run out of social tidbits easily and find richness in listening to the conversation as it swirls around me.
As I listened to a group of leaders reflecting on the paths that their various careers had taken at one such recent event, I was struck by how many of them had just fallen into their roles. Most of them had been appointed into a supervisor position, which led to being slotted into a higher-up position, and another, and yet another until they came to be in their currently significant leadership position. While it was very evident that they were committed to their work, passion, energy, and enthusiasm were definitely in short supply!
It reminded me of a quote I had read by leadership great, Jim Rohn, in which he said: “if you don’t design your own life plan chances are you’ll fall into someone else’s plan. And guess what they have planned for you? Not Much.” The same can be said for your career. If you don’t take charge and design your own career plan you’ll fall into someone else’s plan. And what they have planned for you may not be what you envision for yourself!
Here are a few tips to help you be the guide of your leadership career path:
1. Be intentional in designing it! If you are in a place of financial safety/ security don’t just take on any leadership job that comes your way that someone else has decided you are right for. Stop and take the time to ask yourself:
- How does this role fit with where I see myself in 1 – 5 – 10 years?
- What aspect(s) of leadership am I passionate about? If your answer to that questions is a broad one, then:
- How do I narrow down my focus?
- If I don’t have the qualifications for the job I want right now, what role(s) can I take on now that will help me build my skills in preparation for my dream job?
2. Develop a network of valuable contacts that align with your career path that you can serve and whom will support you in your journey.
3. Join organizations that will help you build your skills and expand your network - be strategic as you go about this.
4. Work with a mentor or mentors. Choose those whose skills and strengths you aspire to emulate.
5. Hire an Executive Coach to help you:
- Clearly define your goals.
- Identify your strengths and areas that you would like to hone your skills.
- Develop a strategic, detailed plan to target your dream leadership job.
Connect with Endless Possibilities Executive Coaching & Consulting, Vancouver, B.C. today to arrange a complimentary Coaching conversation!
