Have you ever asked yourself the question: What does it take to move to the next level in my career?

Career progression and success is often a desired outcome. However, for some it falls in the 'too hard basket'. It doesn't have to be that way. Whether it is the start of a New Year or part way through the year, opportunities will present themselves to help you to achieve your goals.

Stand out

To take up these opportunities, when and as they occur, means that you need to prepare yourself so that you feel confident and ready. You need to be able to stand out for all the right reasons.

'The secret of success in life is for a man (or woman) to be ready for his (or her) opportunity when it comes.'

~ Benjamin Disraeli, 1804-1881

You may have the same skills as your colleagues. In fact, you may have more skills and experience. Yet they are promoted or secure better roles in other organisations and you may be wondering 'how?'

In this modern world if you can't communicate your ideas and thoughts effectively, then you can't reap the associated benefits.

How to increase your opportunities

The first step in gaining increased opportunities is to identify both your strengths and the areas that you need to develop.

Ask yourself:

• How well do I communicate?
• Am I able to structure my ideas in a logical manner and articulate my thoughts?
• Do I collaborate well with team members?
• Am I able to pitch my ideas confidently to senior management?
• How are my writing skills?

People who can speak and write well are seen as 'can do' people. They are often invited to provide their input into projects. They are proactive in helping the business grow and they develop their skills to ensure that they bring value to the organisation. They stand out and are noticed.

Once you have identified the areas that need development, then put together a plan to achieve your goals. Be clear as to what you want to achieve and by when.

You may even find that developing a skill in one area will have a ripple effect in other areas. Many of my clients have had just that experience.

Case Studies

Client #1

I worked with a gentleman who was an expert in his field. However his writing skills were holding him back from progressing within the organisation. After identifying the areas that required attention, we focused on improving his skills.

As a result, his writing skills improved to the point that he became confident to lead writing teams on projects within the organisation. At the end of the year, he was awarded the 'employee of the year' award for his contributions to the organisation. He was also head-hunted by other organisations. This person stood out and was noticed for all of the right reasons.

Client #2

I worked with a lady who was keen to find a role in a new organisation where her skills could be better utilized. She was feeling 'stuck' in her current role with little opportunities to progress and was not confident in attending interviews.

She undertook one of my Public Speaking programs. By concentrating on finding her message and delivering it effectively, her confidence increased to the point that she was actively seeking opportunities within her own organization.

In the end, her employer recognized that she was capable of more than her current responsibilities. Instead of needing to move to another organization to find new opportunities they appeared within her current one.

Moving forward

These two people had identified the areas they needed to develop and by doing so, were able to seize opportunities that they may not have been aware of previously.

We are surrounded by opportunities on a daily basis. Recognising them and preparing for them may mean that success is just around the corner.

Contact our office today to find out how our programs can help you to take control of your career.