We've all been there. You're stuck in the same job you've been in for five years, doing the same stuff day-in, day-out, and you've almost forgotten why it was that you wanted to start on this career path in the first place. There's nothing worse than being in a work rut. What you need is a new challenge - a promotion or a role change - something to get excited about in the mornings again. Here are seven things you can start doing now to make that happen sooner... (not to mention make the day-to-day routine a little less monotonous).
Know what role you want
If you don’t have a clear idea of what you want from your next job, it’s likely that your employer will pick up on that. It’s essential to do your research; what would the next steps be? How much responsibility are you willing to take on? What kind of experience do you need first? Taking the time to think long and hard about these things will reap a whole host of benefits when it comes to career conversations.
Have a career mentor
Rather than resenting those above you on the career ladder, make use of them. Ask your superiors for their help and advice and then emulate their attitudes and behaviour in the office where possible. Choosing someone to be your career mentor is an invaluable exercise – not only will they be flattered by you looking up to them but they’ll also respect your pro-activeness and could be very helpful when it comes to securing that next job.
Be enthusiastic and always offer to help
Remember the advice you were given as an intern? To be as enthusiastic, happy and pleasant-to-be-around as possible, to get there early, stay late, and always be the first to put your hand up when something needed doing, no matter how small? Well, that advice stands for all points in your career, particularly if you want to get promoted. A lot of people get complacent in their jobs after a few years, which means your boss is hardly going to reward you for sub-par, lack-lustre work. Give yourself the best chance by maintaining a sunny disposition and above all else showing willing.
Have great ideas and show initiative
Turning up to work and doing your job adequately is one thing, but are you actually bringing anything new to the table that could benefit your company? Do you go to meetings prepared, with a note pad full of ideas? If the answer is no, then you need to rethink your strategy. Being willing to spearhead new projects is vital for your career growth – after all, it shows that you’re taking your job seriously and that you’re in it for the long haul.
Dress the part
It’s sad but true that how we look at work does have an impact on our potential job prospects. It makes sense – after all, isn’t the way someone looks one of the first things you notice? We’re not suggesting that you buy an entirely new work wardrobe full of designer clothes – that’s not necessary - but putting some thought into what you wear could make a big difference. Don’t wear tights with ladders in, get your shoes re-heeled and invest in a smart jacket – it’s all about how you're perceived…
Network, network, network
Meeting as many people as you can at your place of work is vital for getting your name out there. After all, the more colleagues who have something nice to say about you, the better. It will also help when different roles come up in different departments, not to mention externally – it’s always great to be top of someone’s list of recommendations. Make sure you’re always friendly in the kitchen, in the lift, or even at the pub for after-work drinks – you never know who you might be talking to…
Ask for one
Finally, if you don't ask, you don't get. How is your employer supposed to know that you're keen for a new challenge if you don't bring it up? Schedule in a meeting to chat about your career and mention that you're looking to make the next steps - showing that you're thinking about your career will definitely impress your boss and make them think more about promoting you.
SEE MORE: Returning to work after maternity leave - waht you need to know