Your Career Goals

Most people shy away from networking. It can be intimidating, awkward, draining, and time-consuming. When so many of us are already pressed for time, the last thing we want to do at the end of a long day is attend a “networking event.” We’d much rather meet up with friends, check in with our families, or just sit in front of the TV for a few hours. But networking can be extremely valuable, for finding a new job and advancing your career. Here are three reasons why networking can lead to a better job.

It’s not easy to run a company. And aside from a salary, your boss probably gets very little reward. The truth is you’re probably grateful to have a job—especially this time of year—and it’s important to show your boss that you recognize and respect their efforts and you appreciate the opportunity to be there. If you can do that, it’ll go a long way in securing your relationship with your boss and helping advance your career.

Everyone aims to advance their careers, but it’s hard to know just how to go about it. In fact, you might not even fully understand what the next step in your career looks like or what your ultimate career goals are. Fortunately, career counselors are available to help walk you through these steps. But if you want to get the most out of career counseling, you need to do your part, too. You have to come prepared and give honest, thoughtful answers. Here’s how a career counseling service can give your career a boost.

A talent shortage means that greater demand for talent can lead to greater opportunities. Candidates are far from desperate, so they can weigh their options and take their time exploring every possibility before accepting an offer. Meanwhile, companies have to appeal to the best, most talented candidates by showing that they’re the best place to work. Here are three reasons a talent shortage is a fantastic opportunity for you.

Your resume shows off your skills, qualifications, experience, education and probably a few dozen other heroic highlights. But it will only get you so far. At some point, your intangible qualities will take over and can make you shine brighter than someone with a similar resume. Here are four characteristics you can develop to help you find your dream job.

Soft skills are crucial to a successful career. They can’t be taught in a classroom or measured on paper, but they can be detected by hiring managers. Degrees, certifications, and years of experience don’t mean much without the proper combination of soft skills. Here are five soft skills you need to develop right now to get noticed and advance your career.

Before you decide to leave a job, think it through and make sure that this is absolutely the best decision for you. You don’t want to burn a bridge before it’s too late! Here are six steps to follow to make sure you follow professional protocol and don’t lose respect from your colleagues and bosses.

Changing careers can be a scary milestone. But when you’re disinterested, uninspired, or even unhappy at work, you need to make a change. Fortunately, it can be a rewarding process, and a career you love is well worth it!

Your level of professionalism at work can help you earn the respect and admiration of your bosses and co-workers and determine whether or not you receive a raise or promotion. If you focus on the way you present yourself in the office, you’ll see the rewards of your professional demeanor and behavior.

A sense of autonomy at work is important. When you feel in control of your time and responsibilities, you feel more satisfied and more motivated. But gaining this flexibility and freedom is tricky, especially as many companies are expecting even more of employees when they transition to working remotely. Still, more and more companies are open to flexible working arrangements to keep their most talented and productive employees happy.