Monday, June 9, 2014

5 Tips for Turning an Entry-Level Job into a Career

Although having a job is good; having a career a solid career is even better. But, let’s face it…not everyone can afford to go to college but yet desires to have some of the same opportunities in the workplace as those who have a college degree and above. It’s a fact that some individuals have been working in an entry-level job for years and feel that they are stuck there. But this is so far from the truth, especially if you work for a company that offers opportunities for advancement. Many companies offer tuition reimbursement benefits and relevant training programs for its employees thus making it possible for anyone to advance in their role. Do you feel stuck in your job?  Are you tired of the same routine?  If you work for a company that offers growth potential and excellent benefits you should consider turning your job into a career.  Keep in mind that if you have been in your current position for more than a year, you have actually developed a skill…regardless of how boring the job is. Look at it this way, you can actually transform your job into a promising career, if you desire.
 
 No matter what industry you work in, you are a good candidate for a career move if you demonstrate loyalty to the company. It’s a fact that a college education does open more doors for opportunity in the job market, but it’s not impossible to succeed without out one.  You’ve got to realize that you have the power improve your current situation.  Instead of working an entry-level, dead-end job…take steps to move upward in your company and make it a career. Here are tips for turning your job into a career.
 

1). Take the initiative- don’t wait for your manager to give you instructions on work that you know needs to been done and how to execute it. Actually, you should learn all you can about your job and produce quality work continuously. Demonstrate that you are capable of not only performing your role but capable of taking on additional responsibilities as well.  You should never turn down task assigned to you by your manager even if it’s not included in your job description---but should view this as valuable knowledge and experience that could open doors of opportunity for you in the future.

2). Demonstrate loyalty- it’s imperative that you are at your post on time and when you are expected to be there. Keep in mind that your dependability displays that you are a good candidate for upcoming advancements and promotions within the company that you qualify for. A promotion could possibly develop into a promising career.  Study the company mission statement, and try to align your goals with that of the company.
 
3). Inquire about pertinent training- don’t be shy about revealing to your manager that you are interested in in-house or offsite training the company offers its employees that will enhance your job knowledge thus making you more of an asset to your department.  Make it clear that the company would benefit because you would put obtained knowledge back into the company and would help the company attain its goals and objectives more effectively. This would be a major Brownie point for you.  Also, even if you are not financially able to register as a full-time student in college to pursue a career, you might consider taking a pertinent class or two at a junior college that will enhance your knowledge in the job you are seeking to advance in.

4). Inquire about new job openings- keep you eyes open for new job postings in your company and apply for jobs that interest you.  Now some positions may require that you have a college degree and/or other certifications to be considered. But in some cases your manager may exchange years of experience for a degree, depending upon the position.  But you must demonstrate that you are ready for the challenge and capable of mastering advanced roles and responsibilities. A promotion from within could lead to suitable long-term career.

5). Showcase your talents- do you have interpersonal skills, (these would be your soft skills) that could possibly qualify you for a leadership position? If you have good problem solving skills, people skills, management skills, or organizational skills…these are valuable assets that could help place you at the top the line for a promotion. You should also effectively utilize your hard skills to help attain departmental goals and to meet the needs of the customer. Your hard skills might consist of computer technology, finance, health care, call center rep, cooking, etc. Your manger could help you achieve your career goals when you demonstrate your ability to competently accomplish regular job assignments.

Final thought, you can boost your earning potential, job satisfaction, and your morale when you turn your job into a career.
 

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