How do you turn a job into a lasting career? First, understand the difference. A job is defined as a paid occupation, while a career is defined as progressive achievement in professional or business life usually involving a series of jobs during a lifetime.
Turning a job into a career requires executing your present responsibilities well and continually working to improve yourself for future employment. Once you become content in a position and become complacent, you jeopardize your future progression and career growth.
A lifetime of education and learning is a key factor for a successful career. While some employers are very progressive when it comes to providing educational programs along with incentives to their employees, others offer little or no learning opportunities or inducement. Do what it takes to improve yourself. Don’t just leave your schooling up to your employer.
Take a look at what your employer will support and act accordingly. If there are free programs available, take advantage of them. If there is tuition reimbursement, pick the most relevant subjects for career development and enroll.
At the very least, make sure you have the latest basic computer skills. Some of the most relevant applications you will need in today’s business world are word processing, PowerPoint and Excel spreadsheets. Know how to navigate the Internet, send e-mails and attachments. Of course, each occupation has its own particular mandatory subject areas you must have to hold a job.
However, staying within your present job requirements may be a big mistake. It is important to stay ahead of the curve. Take a look at the latest trends in your field. What educational opportunities are available? They may take the form of seminars and not yet be taught in the regular classrooms. Attend those your employer will allow. If they won’t pay for your attendance pay your own way if the course is important and you can afford it.
Volunteer for special assignments that will give you the opportunity to learn. Progressive employers often have projects aimed toward the future direction of the organization. If you are one of the few who helped develop a new program, you will have an advantage in being selected for leadership positions in the organizations future. You will also be viewed as forward thinking and someone that can get things done.
If you find yourself in an industry or job that is being phased out, look for another field or occupation. Don’t wait until it is too late and find yourself laid off with few alternatives.
Making a shift or change in an occupation is often warranted because of economic or technological forces. Keep your eyes and ears open.
Take a look at the latest job-market trends. It is easy to do. Just look at the employment ads in the paper or on the Internet. If you need to make an adjustment, make sure it is something you really want to do. Motivation in a job is a key to career success.
If your employer is not progressive, consider making a change to a progressive organization so you are not placed in the unfortunate position of not being marketable. Recruiters like to recruit from the best employers, so make sure you are with the best.
M.B. Owens is a Nashville-based columnist and journalist with a decade of experience writing on employment topics and business.