Secrets to Success:
How Women Can Better Reach for Their Ultimate Career Goals by ReadyJob.org
Are you considering a change in your path? Whether it’s time to climb the corporate ladder or jump into a new career, it’s vital to recognize how to make the most of your potential. Here is important information on improving your prospects and achieving success.
Bragging rights. One of your most important steps toward reaching your career goals is learning to acknowledge your achievements. Women are still assumed to be lower ranking in the business world, and as Quartz points out, some statistics indicate the wage gap is likely to remain in place for another two centuries. Things are improving, but you have to step out and tell people what you’re worth and what you achieve, or not only will they remain unaware, they will often assume less. Keep that in mind as a starting point when preparing for your next move. Sort out your skills and abilities while creating a professional resume, highlighting your hard work and experience thus far. Own your best qualities, and put them out there to your advantage.
Make an impression. With your resume in hand, it’s time to prepare a stellar, eye catching cover letter. Remember, you want to stand out from the crowd, and cover letters can be a great way to drive home why you’re the right choice for a particular position. Aim for a professional, consistent format that shows off your best assets and tells whoever is reading it that you value the opportunity and will fit into the position and environment well. Look online for cover letter guides that help you write the perfect cover letter to catch the employer’s interest and snag the interview you desire.
Facts and figures. Nothing speaks to value more than numbers and facts. Every successful business person can acknowledge bottom line figures, so whenever possible, be ready with statistics of what you are worth. Did you play an active, noteworthy role increasing company earnings last quarter? Did you have a personal best this past year, or earn a difficult certification? Some statistics indicate certifications and similar achievements make you more valuable to employers. If you’re ready for a career change, earning that certification or learning new skills can also be a key to opening doors or starting your own business. It can be the next step toward your new title, fresh start, or promotion. Do the math, research how your new abilities and knowledge changes your value, make comparisons with what professional counterparts earn with the same sort of successes. It’s hard to argue with facts and figures!
Maximize connections. Networking is undervalued. There is good reason for the old saying that it isn’t always what you know, but who you know. NBC News notes many successful women can point to doors that opened to them thanks to networking with peers, clients, supervisors and alumni who could recommend them for positions. Make the most of every opportunity. When you connect with mentors, potential workplaces or other associates, be prepared. Have questions in mind so you can optimize those events, gleaning the information needed to make your next move. It’s a chance to show you are motivated, inspired, and professional, and you never know when it will lead to your dream job.
Create opportunities. Are you waiting for the “perfect” moment? Realistically, it may never come. We can always find a “better” opportunity, so don’t overthink your chances. Time things to a point, but as The Muse notes, you must be willing to share your ideas and take chances in order to reach your career goals. Sometimes this means taking baby steps toward your overall objective. Keep the big picture in mind, and make a gradual career change if necessary, taking positions or earning experience that helps you in your long-term goals.
With a little planning and preparation, you can set yourself up for success in your next venture. Acknowledge your achievements and value, and make the most your connections and opportunities. You have everything to gain; reach for your dreams!