As unique as we are as individuals, so too is how we perceive and manage risks, including those relating to our career.
These risks can include not achieving your full career potential or feeling dissatisfied with your job. These may impact on your lifestyle choices.
At whatever stage you are in your career, there is always benefit in assessing where you are, and then implementing steps, to not just mitigate your risks, but to maximise your potential.
Here are some steps I recommend you take:
1. Set clear career goals
Start with identifying your key strengths and which career path best aligns with them. Even incremental ‘pivoting’ of your career, if this recognition means better alignment, can have significant long-term benefits.
Having a clear career plan will keep you focused and motivated. Annually assess where you want to be in the next 3, 5, or 10 years. Break these goals into smaller, achievable milestones, and adjust as your career evolves.
2. Continual Learning and Development
In a competitive job market, staying relevant is crucial. Regularly updating your skills—whether through formal education, certifications, or online courses—ensures you remain adaptable to industry changes.
Seek out opportunities (including within each of your roles) to expand both your technical and soft skills, as both are vital for career growth.
3. Networking and Mentorship
Building a strong professional network is one of the most effective ways to safeguard your career. Engage with colleagues and peers, attend industry events, and consider seeking mentorship from senior professionals.
These connections can open doors to new opportunities, provide valuable insights, and keep you informed about industry trends and innovations.
4. Job Satisfaction and Work-Life Balance
Career success isn’t just about the destination —it’s also about enjoying the journey. Ensure you have a healthy work-life balance and focus on finding a role that aligns with your values and drivers.
Job satisfaction plays a critical role in long-term success, so again, don’t be afraid to pivot by staying focused on what you’re good at and that motivates you.
5. Build momentum within each business
I believe career progression and satisfaction are best achieved by building on your career path within each business with structures to support clear communication and in you delivering targeted results.
Where each business matches your values and drivers, confirm upfront and assess annually, how you’d like to progress to mutual advantage. Constant change in organisations and roles makes building career momentum more difficult.
Life is never a certainty, but better decisions can come when you’ve created the opportunity.
As the Roman philosopher Seneca allegedly said, “Luck is what happens when preparation meets opportunity”.
How prepared are you in managing your career risks?
