Career Advancement: Make Sure You’re Moving in the Right Direction

If you want to get ahead in your career, you need to have a smart strategy and carefully weigh each potential career move. One thing that’s important to remember: not every change is a move up. Also, beware of the risk of getting stalled in one spot—even if it is a job you enjoy and do well.

As this article says, it can be helpful to think of your ideal career progress as getting on the escalator that will take you towards your desired destination. Getting on the wrong escalator will only delay your success—and may take you in the wrong direction entirely.

How do you make sure you are on the right track? First, of course, you need to figure out exactly what your ultimate goal is—and envision yourself getting there. Analyze your priorities and determine what’s most important to you, both in your long-term goals and your immediate steps that will help get you there.

Next, take control and be proactive. Don’t wait for people to bring opportunities to you. Identify what you want to do and where you want to be, and go after it. Be visible, and make sure you are vocal about your ambitions. Otherwise, people may assume you are perfectly happy right where you are and may not consider you for (or tell you about) other opportunities.

How do you make sure you’re moving in the right direction? Share tips in the comments.

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