Why You Might Be Stuck In Your Career
Most people start out in their career full of enthusiasm. At that time it seems like there are no boundaries on how far you can go.
If you are in a professional or technical role you probably invested time, energy and money in getting the qualifications that opens the doors to more senior level roles.
Trouble is a lot of other people get the qualifications too. Now you feel like you are stuck and that your career is going nowhere.
When I’m speaking with people there seems to be some common reasons why people are stuck in their career. Do any of them apply to you?
Treading Water
I’m surprised to see so many people, even those who are earning a decent salary just treading water. By that I mean they are turning up at work and doing the minimum. They are doing nothing to improve things.
Now you might say that you don’t have the authority. My question to you is do you need authority? Within your sphere of influence there are always going to be things that you can improve.
Lacking Visibility
Are you the best kept secret in your organisation? Perhaps it’s a British thing but people sometimes are a bit reluctant to let it be known about what they are achieving.
I’m not suggesting you go over the top. At the same time don’t be afraid to speak positively about what you are contributing.
You’re Not Promotable
I’m an accountant by profession. Getting qualified as an accountant was a real struggle.
What really surprises me is the number of people who go through that struggle then do nothing to grow and develop themselves.
If you don’t keep growing and developing you will quickly find you are left behind and past your sell by date.
Lack Of Drive
Plenty of people talk about what they want but lack the drive to make it happen. Don’t buy into this idea that it’s all down to luck. Hard work and focused effort play a huge part in achieving anything.
Ask yourself the following:
Am I really an asset to my employer?
If yes, what else could you do to be even more of an asset
If no, consider what you could start doing to be seen as an asset and someone on the promotion track
Duncan Brodie helps accountants and professionals achieve more career success. Learn more here
About the Author Duncan Brodie
Since 2006 I’ve worked with in excess of 8,000 accountants and professionals in workshops, seminars and one to one helping them land their next jobs and become better leaders, presenters and business partners. Before that I spent 25 years in accountancy climbing the career ladder from Payments Clerk to FD. I’m a CIMA Fellow, Certified Professional Coach and Team Coach Facilitator.