Career Development 101: A Complete Guide to Professional Growth
Published b The National Society of Leadership and Success
Many people lack a professional development track or growth plan. Whether you’re a student, new to the workforce, or currently have your dream job, everyone can benefit from career development, but how should you get started crafting a plan? First, let’s explore what career development is and why it’s important.
WHAT IS CAREER DEVELOPMENT?
Career development is the process of finding your footing in your professional life. This process involves assessing where you are now compared to where you want to be and creating a plan to get there.
Career development doesn’t start when you find a job after college. It can (and should) be a process that you work through during college. In fact, since career development is an ongoing process, it’s recommended you start your plan in the first year of college.
Types of Career Development
Your career development journey doesn’t stop after you land your first job. It is a lifelong process that needs to be continually refined and redefined. Below are some steps you can take to be successful in your professional career long term.
Self awareness. Take time to find out what you want and don’t want, and discover where your strengths lie and the areas that need improvement. Figure out what you excel at and find a matching career path.
Goal setting. Set a series of small goals that will get you closer to your long-term goal. This is where you’ll acquire information about different industries and organizations, and create a career strategy of how to get there. This is also where you’ll participate in career exploration and career identification.
Training and learning. Develop the specific skills necessary for career success. Whether that be participating in a leadership training program, watching webinars, or taking on an internship related to your overall career goal.