- Start by getting to know yourself to better understand what really gives you satisfaction and energy.
- Set a direction, not a rigid plan – be flexible in the face of changing circumstances.
- Follow trends and develop your skills to be prepared for a dynamic job market.
- Build a network of contacts and talk about your plans to open yourself up to new opportunities.
Today’s world is dynamic, full of change and professions that no one dreamed of 20 years ago. Despite the ocean of opportunities, planning a career path has become more difficult than ever. The rigid scenario of 40 years ahead, set just after graduating high school, no longer works in many cases. It’s better to look at career planning as putting up signposts – consider different possibilities at each step and choose the ones that will help you grow and give you job satisfaction.
Start by getting to know yourself
Before you start flicking through job listings, checking which industry has the highest pay at the moment and imagining your next promotion, stop for a moment and think about what you really need. Sometimes the answer is at your fingertips, and sometimes it takes a little effort, but it’s worth it. Answer these questions honestly, to yourself: What do I need? What am I afraid of? What interests me? What gives me energy and what takes it away? What skills do I want to develop?
Then imagine yourself in five years’ time and write a letter as you, but from the future. Describe everything as accurately as you can, imagine the emotions that will accompany you on your new path. This might just be your goal.
Set yourself a direction, not a route
On every route there are unexpected obstacles and changes, but the direction remains the same, and there are many ways to get there. Once you know where you are going, think about what you need. For example: if you want to work in an international environment, you will need language skills.
These needs will determine the route and guide your educational, work and project choices. Remember to be flexible though, an opportunity may arise that you never even dreamed of, and it is worth leaving yourself the space to consider it.
Watch the market and trends
The job market is dynamic and changes very quickly, so it is worth keeping an eye on it. This will help you find out what skills are most in demand, how your industry is changing and what opportunities await you. This knowledge will help you to feel more confident in your decision-making and at possible job interviews.
Develop your competences
The world doesn’t stand still, and neither should you. Once you know where you’re going and what you need to get there, it’s time to act. Fortunately, there are more and more opportunities every month. The internet is even saturated with offers of both free and paid courses: online, onsite and even through professional development scholarship programmes.
It’s an ideal starting point that doesn’t require much free time and doesn’t involve any risk. Remember, too, that employers are not only looking at technical competences, but also soft skills such as teamwork and good communication. If you can, ask your colleagues or boss for feedback – a fresh perspective is always helpful.
Build relationships – online and offline
In today’s world, networking has become a very important part of a career. It’s nothing more than networking with contacts that you may find helpful or inspiring. Start by creating a profile on LinkedIn and other industry portals, attend webinars and workshops. Even one acquaintance and an interesting conversation can open many doors.
Talk about your plans
Don’t plan your career alone; although you are the one making the final decisions, it is worth taking advice from someone experienced. Not everything can be seen at first glance, and an additional point of view can add a new direction to your route.
If you are already part of a team or company, talk to your manager, mentor or HR. Increasingly, there are opportunities for growth and change within the organisation – but you need to ask about them first.
Career planning is not a one-off task, but a process that is worth reviewing and updating regularly. It’s not about laying out a perfect plan for life, but about making informed choices that take you step by step closer to rewarding work and personal development.
Don’t wait for the perfect moment. Schedule an hour a week, just for yourself, and write down your goals, fears and dreams. This is the first step on the road to your desired career.
