Career Killers To Avoid

According to a survey of top executives and hiring officials conducted by career counselor Robin Ryan and author of What To Do With The Rest Of Your Life, there are some common ways that people tend to sabotage their own careers. Ms. Ryan identified several traits, standards and characteristics that successful leaders seek in developing their workforce. Take the time this year to look closer and focus on goal setting in these strategic areas.

Not producing results or solving company problems. According to top executives, you must not only be good at what you do, but you have to be able to proactively solve company problems, get things done, and produce. When it comes to promotions or avoiding a layoff, these are critical factors. In essence, does your resume contain quantifiable statistics (i.e. #, $, %)?

Not working at a job you’re passionate about. By discovering your passion and then finding a way to work in that area, you will be not only healthier and happier, but much more successful. Life is too short to waste it on an unfulfilling job.

Seeking job security. In today’s world of work, there is no such thing as job security! Each of us must not only constantly build and nurture our network, but we must also consciously develop a portfolio of marketable skills that we take from job to job. The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that Americans will make a job change (by choice or not) about every 3.5 years. This equates to twelve or more job or career changes during your working lifetime. What skill or talent do you possess that employers desire?

Thinking that money is everything. Through working with hundreds of career clients, it doesn’t take long to see that money does not buy happiness. Most people are willing to take a salary cut in order to obtain more job satisfaction or a better quality of life. Be cautious of chasing money only.

Waiting for employers to notice you. Too many clients timidly wait for a raise or promotion, and then are disappointed when they are overlooked. Often it takes being much more proactive. Have direct conversations with your supervisor or mentor about your career path and clearly articulate your desire for advancement or other opportunities. This may result in rewriting your job description, taking on additional responsibilities, updating your resume, and testing the job market.