Colorado State University - Global Campus
Blog
When earning a degree, it may seem that obtaining your dream job is the end goal. However, life presents constant opportunities for career growth and changes as professionals continue learning and developing skills, all the while envisioning where you’d like to end up.
Career mapping has been traditionally associated with company employee-retention methods, but it can also be a useful method when individuals use it to set goals and stay motivated.
Assess Skills
Taking stock of your personal and professional skills can help with career planning and understanding of your contributions. When assessing skills — whether at work, with a trusted friend, or by oneself — keep in mind the following aspects of development and progress: communication, teamwork, creativity, time-management, and decision-making.There are a few ways to conduct an assessment.
Make the Most of Networking and Professional Organizations
Making connections with other professionals in a current and/or desired career field boasts many benefits. You and your network will be able to share job opportunities, advice, ideas, and common interests.
Pursue Continuing Education
Learning doesn’t have to end with earning a degree. It can be a lifelong journey for people who are curious and focused on personal growth.
Establish SMART Goals
Setting SMART goals — and goals in general — is an ongoing process. Interests, values, motivations, and perspectives change throughout life as a result of experiences. Checking in with and revising goals is helpful to measure progress and also make changes to these goals if needed.
There are many ways to assess skills, measure goals, and continue advancing toward the pursuit of your dream career. Assessing your skills, continuing to learn about your industry, and making meaningful connections with other professionals can be some of the best ways to achieve your career goals as they, and you, continue to grow and change for the better.