Setting career goals offers a multitude of benefits. They allow you to be more focused, use time more efficiently, and have peace of mind. Best of all, goals give you something to work toward and the amazing feeling of pride when you achieve them. 2021 is your opportunity for a fresh start. What career goals will you achieve in the coming year. These 5 tips will help you set achievable career goals.
1. Take Time to Develop a Vision
As impractical as it sounds, when setting career goals, you should start with the end. Ideally, what is your goal for your career? If you are a lawyer, maybe you want to become a judge or if you are managing a retail chain, maybe one day you want to open a franchise. Determining your end goal may take some time. Do not become frustrated and give up if it does not come to you right away.
2. Make Your Goals Realistic
It is one thing to dream big, but it is another thing if your goals are completely unrealistic. Unrealistic goals are unachievable which will only leave you feeling discouraged. For instance, it is unrealistic to think that you will be promoted to Senior of Marketing one month after joining the team fresh out of school.
3. Make Your Goals Measurable
Progress is the fuel that will keep you motivated in achieving your career goals. If you have no way of measuring your progress, then you have no way of knowing how far you have come (or haven’t come). Make sure your goals are measurable in some way. For example, it could be a dollar amount you plan on making in x number of years or additional certifications you plan on obtaining within x amount of time.
4. Put Your Career Goals in Writing
Write out your career goals in great detail and put them in a place where you can see them every day. Do not just write what the goal is, but map out a plan on how you will achieve your goals. For each benchmark, you can even plan a special way to treat yourself. For instance, you might choose a weekend vacation once you finish your certifications.
5. Seek Advice from Mentors
Talk to those who are or have been where you are trying to go. Ask for their advice on how they got there and what they would do differently. Learn from their mistakes and take advantage of any tips they give you to achieve your own career goals.
Ready to Take the Next Step in Your Career?
A new year means new beginnings. Salem Solutions can help you find the perfect job to match your career goals. As the most trusted staffing agency in Tampa Florida, our specialists will take the time to learn your goals and skillset, help you apply for relevant positions. Browse open positions today and get a jumpstart on achieving your career goals!
