Welcome back. Let’s talk about setting some Career goals. Some people suggested that I skip this portion of goals setting series because most of the people viewing this are focused on self-employment of some type. I can see this point of view but it is also meant for those that haven’t made the jump from the corporate world to being their own boss.
The other reason is that career goals are not limited to those in the corporate world although that’s what we think about. They can also be used by entrepreneurs as they look to define themselves. You could have the goal to be a CEO or you could also have the career goal of being recognized as a leader in your industry.
I’d like to make a BIG DISCLAMER right at the start of this blog. Being the head honcho in any business may not be what you have in mind for you career. Be careful about setting your sights at a job that is higher on the corporate ladder just because of the PAY. It is a sad day when someone gets a promotion and now hates their job because the part of the job they love is not done by that position. You should have a serious look at what you are giving up when you accept that new position.
This is why career goals may take you a bit more time to get a handle on and be able to write them down. It will take some research and some personal reflection. It will also take some careful strategic planning on your part.
Let start with the research, all careers are not created equal. They require different skill set and commitments. In fact it would be true that the CEO of or corporation X requires different skills than the CEO of corporation Y because of the culture of the organizations. If you’re already in an organization that has a great leadership, then take advantage of that and start looking at what your boss is doing and what his boss is doing. If you can get the job descriptions for those position that would tell you what the scope of the job is. If that information is not available, then look at what work they are doing and what work they are delegating.
You are trying to get a picture of what is done at the position you want and work on those skills you have and work out the differences, all while being exceptional at your present position. For example, let’s take presentations; if your boss’s boss does reports to the Board or does outside speaking but you can barely speak in front of your team of 2 or 3. That would be a gap that needs to be filled. Or if your boss spends a lot of time working on budgets and reports but you can’t read a balance sheet, you may need to spend some time working on those skills.
So now that you have a good idea of what career goal you really want and you have honestly reviewed your skills and identified the gaps, now it is time to start working on the goals for your professional future.
Remember we are using SMART goals acronym. Your goals need to be Specific, Measurable Attainable Relevant and Time-base. And add my three extras of Written, Reviewed and creates Passion and you have the bases of developing a powerful future based on your goals.
Chat soon
Percy