Managing Your Career With Intentionality

We are experiencing some things that we have never encountered and now may be the time to think about how we manage our careers.  As we move through the Covid-19 crisis and navigate the financial landscape that will be left in the wake we must carefully consider our options.  I frequently hear from professionals when discussing career options that "I am happy."   When pressed about that usually I hear about nice people, good work/life balance and other things that may not be enough to sustain a career moving ahead.  Following are some things to consider.

1.  Is my company well positioned financially to weather the upcoming reductions in business?
2.  Where do I fit into plans?
3.  What areas of opportunity exist in my company?
4.  What areas can I help expand business currently?
5.  Am I proficient to step in and assist in those areas?  If not, how do I get where I need to be?
6.  What competitors may be better positioned to allow me to continue my career growth?
7.  What are the most valuable skills that I must learn that I do not currently possess?

Now is the time to be having some of these discussions with leadership at your firm.   Questions 2, 3, 4, 5 & 7 will provide a lot of necessary information to enhance your decision making and will also demonstrate a forward looking mentality that will benefit the firm possibly enhancing your value.  If your analysis is not in line with your long term goals it is time to consider other alternatives.   Don't procrastinate.  Start having the conversations immediately.