Career Development – Don’t Get Stuck in a Rut

If you are passionate about your career and have your sights set firmly on promotion, it can be incredibly frustrating when you are over-looked and you fail to get that dream job.  Career development these days can be difficult, depending on the company you work for. But there can be a number of reasons as to why this might happen.  Firstly, are you uniquely qualified for the position?  Was there someone else being interviewed who had even more experience within a similar role?  Did you sell yourself sufficiently at the interview?

If you are bored within your own role, but unable to get the job you really want, then you need to start questioning why before you get stuck in a career rut.  It’s true that businesses have been greatly affected by the recent COVID and financial stress, and so employers are much more careful as to whom they employ or promote. The reason you were overlooked might not have anything to do with your ability. 

Sometimes businesses are guilty of holding people back, you can become too valuable in a certain role to be released, in a way, it is a kind of back-handed compliment, but of course this is no good for you.  Sometimes you may be overlooked because you are good, but not dynamic within the role.  Equally, you may not know the right people, those who could pull a few strings and at least get you that all-important interview.  But consider if your work record speaks favourably for you?  Have you taken numerous sick leave?  Do you get into work on time?

These are all things that would be considered by management and the Human Resources department,  and this takes place long before you even get to interview stage. You can take your career development into your own hands because there are lots of things that you can do that will highlight your desire for promotion.  First, seriously consider your career choices. What do you really want to do? Once you have this clear in your mind, talk to your manager and explain that you are ready for more responsibilities and that you are looking for promotion in the short or long term.

Depending on the outcome of this conversation, you can always go to your Human Resources department, and discuss the situation with them.  They will certainly know of any vacancies that may be coming along and ones that might potentially suit you.  If you made it to an interview but did not get the job, don’t be afraid to ask them why.  They may not like being put on the spot, but it is part of their role to help with employee development.  At least once you know, you can start considering your options.

Any information that you are given should be taken in a positive manner.  If you sounded too shy, uncertain, or perhaps did not ask enough questions during the interview, these are all very easy things to overcome in the future.  For complete development, there are some amazing career couches out there and professional workshops available that will help you to transform your life. Success is not handed out on a plate; you have to ask for help and work on overcoming your own areas of weakness and make them developmental strengths. Take control of your own career development and reach out to those who can provide you with the techniques to help you succeed.

Join us at the upcoming Wellness Retreat or contact us if you have more questions