KEEP MOMENTUM GOING
CAREER development opportunities are a big driver for workers when choosing an employer but the onus is not just on the boss. Workers must be proactive to ensure their career journey does not stagnate and they keep the passion for their work alive.
SEEK Laws of Attraction research reveals career and development opportunities is the third most important factor attracting jobseekers to particular employers and roles – topped only by salary and work/life balance. It is especially important to Aussies working in science and technology, banking and finance services, digital, and data science and analytics. These industries ranked it in their top two attractors.
Career Development Association of Australia (CDAA) national executive committee member Rebecca Fraser says it is important for workers to constantly develop themselves as this will ensure they stay ahead of industry needs and are able to transition as roles demand change.
She has four tips for workers to stop their careers stagnating.
KEEP AHEAD OF THE TRENDS
Fraser recommends joining industry associations and reading about changes in Australia and overseas.
COMMIT TO ONGOING TRAINING
“Development must be continuous and this may be internal training, onthe-job training or formal training,” she says. “As industries and demands on businesses change new skills will be required.”
LOOK ELSEWHERE FOR DEVELOPMENT
Fraser says it can be difficult to find the time to gain new skills while working full time. She recommends joining a mentoring program and seeking someone who specialises in areas of interest.
LOOK INTERNALLY FOR DEVELOPMENT
“Consider talking to your manager to see what they can recommend for you to be able to try out new departments and learn new skills,” she says.