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The start of a new year is always a good time to think about what you want to do and set goals. For many of us, our objectives and personal targets are linked to career moves. If you have ambitions, or you’ve started to get bored or lose motivation, here are some easy ways to boost your career prospects this year.
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Expand your skill set
Learning new skills is one of the best ways to enhance employability, gain an advantage over others and climb the career ladder. There are many ways to develop and expand your skill set, from doing courses and online workshops to learning on the job. Speak to your employer about opportunities at work and research other avenues online and via networking. It’s particularly beneficial to broaden your skills if you’re thinking about changing careers or you have a different job in mind for your future. Laying the foundations now can boost your chances of getting the position you want further down the line.
Explore learning opportunities
Today, there are more opportunities to learn than ever, thanks to online courses, hybrid programs and virtual environments. From essential courses linked to your current role to webinars or workshops that complement your interests, it’s a brilliant idea to do some research and see what’s available. There is a diverse range of options, which includes everything from short online courses you can do anywhere at any time to intensive postgraduate programs.
Invest in training
Training can help you develop existing capabilities and learn new skills. This is beneficial both for your present role and your future career prospects. Training is also often designed to give you confidence in certain scenarios. Conflict resolution can help you deal with strained relationships within your team, for example, while an alcohol server certification can help you manage problems that arise when a customer has consumed too much alcohol. Look for training opportunities that match your role and will help you strengthen your skills and improve on weaknesses. It’s a good idea to talk to your boss and encourage them to support you through training and to invest in yourself if you have career ambitions or goals. Completing training will enhance your resume in terms of qualifications and experience, but it also demonstrates commitment.
Outline your priorities and goals
We all have different priorities and goals when it comes to our careers. Some people do their jobs purely to pay bills and provide money to enjoy other aspects of life while others live to work. When you think about your future, it’s beneficial to outline your targets and priorities to help you create a personalized plan. What matters most to you? Are you desperate to find a job that gives you a real sense of satisfaction? Do you crave more freedom and flexibility? Would you love to earn more? Do you want a better work-life balance? Do you want to pursue a dream to work in a specific industry or field at all costs? Once you have clear ideas about what is most important to you, you can start plotting your next move.
Consider a change of careers, roles or locations
It’s very easy to get comfortable in roles, locations and career paths. There’s a lot to be said for working in the same place, doing the same thing surrounded by the same people, especially if you enjoy your job or you have brilliant working relationships. If you don’t love your job, however, or you’ve become restless or impatient, it’s wise to consider making changes. Exploring different places, careers and jobs could help you open doors, discover new passions, form new relationships and broaden your horizons. Look into traveling or relocating temporarily, research jobs in different fields that interest you, or see if there are roles with other employers that check the boxes on your wishlist. Change can be daunting, but it can also be incredibly exciting.
Seek expert advice
Seeking expert advice is an excellent way to boost your prospects, especially if you’ve been rejected for roles in the past or you lack confidence. If you find interviews challenging, or you go to pieces when you have to talk about your strengths, for example, getting help can make a big difference. From writing resumes and cover letters to presenting, doing interviews and finding great roles, there are people, tools, platforms, workshops and resources available. Speak to careers advisers, research online and learn from others. You may find it helpful to talk to senior members of staff or to take inspiration from TV documentaries, celebrity stories, social media profiles or podcasts, for example.
Picture source: https://www.pexels.com/photo/people-on-a-video-call-4226140/
Many people will have started 2025 with ambitions to either change careers or get a better job. If you’re on a mission to boost your prospects this year, there are several easy steps to take, including expanding your skill set, exploring learning and training opportunities, outlining your priorities and career goals, seeking expert advice and considering a change of careers, jobs or locations.
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