Picking a role that will let your career thrive

Oct 27, 2015 1:08:52 PM

When we approach a job offer, there are so many things we consider; commute, company culture, salary and progression. Career progression opportunities are so broad, because you don’t always necessarily progress within the same company.

Your whole career is a story, which marches on toward an end goal; whatever your personal end goal might be. Here’s what to consider when picking a role with the intention of climbing the industry ladder.

Your work history to date

Put together a fresh CV, and analyse your history. What is missing from there that you would really like to add? What role or company could offer that? Furthermore, what experience is already on your CV that will really get you off to a head start in finding a role you really want?

Will I be challenged?

So you might be at the start of your career, or a few years into it, and challenges are something you should never shy away from. Why? They are something you are supposed to tackle head on, so you can sing about it later. These are the challenges you personally addressed, and hopefully you have proven results to support a promotion opportunity or a new application. If you really want to progress, don’t be afraid to stake out some extra responsibilities to prove your worth. 

Do I see myself in this for the long haul?

The answer has to be an absolutely resounding YES, especially if progression within your industry is important to your career. Progression takes time, and at times you might need to consider the following question…

Am I prepared to sidestep?

Sometimes, a side step has to happen before a major step forward can take place. Hey, at least it’s not a step backward. Are you prepared to gain a wide range of industry experience, so that climbing the ladder will be easier in the future? We spoke to our digital marketing team leader Kathryn previously, about progression within online marketing, but her advice can be applied to any career. “Don’t jump around too much. Get a solid 12-18 months at least to show commitment to your work.” 

So you should have a real plan of action if you are serious about moving forward. It won’t be handed to you on a plate…you’ll have to fill the plate yourself and show what YOU have to offer.

Will this company allow me to progress?

As mentioned, sometimes you might have to move on from a company to achieve your progression goals. However, is the company you’re with somewhere you really want to continue making an impact in or start making an impact in? At the very start of the application, you should have considered this and expressed a huge interest in progressing within that company. 

Psst! Want more career advice & tips?

Visit our career advice hub & fill your boots with all of the best tips

What do you think?

Share your thoughts on this post - whether you agree, disagree or have your own insight to share, we want to hear from you!

panda-blog-icon

Subscribe to the cranberry panda blog

Don’t want to miss out on ecommerce news, insights and recruitment gossip? Subscribe to ‘The Panda Express’ updates!