Transform Your Career in 2020

Many New Year’s resolutions involve jobs or careers. While some aim to find work, others will want to change employer or move towards the career of their dreams.

As we say goodbye to 2019 and hello to 2020, there are numerous ways to improve your career prospects and make yourself more desirable to prospective employers. Here are some suggestions:

Study

While a university degree is a welcome addition to any CV, there are shorter less expensive modes of study.

In some cases, a short online course or a professional qualification can be every bit as effective, depending on the line of work.

Secondment

Ready for a new challenge but reluctant to let go of your current job? A secondment could be the answer. Many large organisations require people in short-term roles for reasons including maternity cover, specific projects or pilots.

So, you gain an insight into a possible new field with the security of your own job to fall back on, should things not turn out as planned.

Volunteer

It can be difficult to make a career switch when you don’t have any relevant experience of the industry where you see your future.

Offering your services to a charity or other good cause can be a massive ‘win-win’. You take your first steps in the profession of your choice and feel good at the same time.

Go for Promotion

How many times have you looked up from your desk at your line manager and thought, ‘I could do that job…easy’?

Next time the opportunity arises, put your money where your mouth is. Whether it’s a first supervisory post or a move up to senior management, taking the next step on the ladder can be a massive boost to your confidence, level of responsibility…and salary.

Speak Up

In an ideal organisation, the people who get ahead are those who keep their heads down and quietly go about their business. But real life isn’t like that.

Sometimes you have to raise your voice to tell the world (or the people you work for) what you have to offer. If you want promotion, a sideways move or additional duties, use appraisals, feedback sessions, networking events and any other opportunity to tell management what you want.