When was the last
time you took the pulse on your career? In the midst of the great wave of change
in industries such as healthcare and information systems, what part of the wave
are you on? Will you ride proudly on the crest, letting the wave carry you forward
into your future, or will your career be crushed by the rough waves of change?
Here are some of
the important questions to ask when you take a vacation day or a long weekend.
Take the time to write down your answers. We suggest starting with a new spiral
notebook or blank book. Like any journal process, the more time you put into
this exercise, the more you will get out of it. Spend at least five minutes
answering each question before going on to the next. A quick mental check will
not serve you as well as some deep thought and a long writing session. The
answers to these questions will help you determine whether your position with
your company is a healthy one for your career. If you are finding
your job challenging, are learning new skills and gaining new experiences, and
your company is working to stay on the cutting edge of technology and the services
provided to your customers, you are in good shape for the future. If you have
been promoted at least once every two years, and you are listened to when you
express yourself about the company's problems, needs, or direction, and management
responds to complaints or problems by fixing what is wrong, you are in an excellent
environment which is supporting your future growth. If you find that
most of your answers are negative, it is time for you to examine your goals,
write a new resume, and begin looking for alternatives. There are many excellent
books in the business section of bookstores which can guide you in your search
for a new job. Do your homework, prepare yourself well, and find an opportunity
that will get you excited to wake up every morning. Giving Your Career a Physical Examination
Is your career
in good shape? Do you feel invigorated at your job? Do you feel healthy coming
to work each day, knowing that your hard work is paying off, improving your prospects
for the future? In the same way a long distance runner improves his or her cardiovascular
system with each run, a properly exercised career will carry you further than
a slothful one. A yearly career check-up will help determine whether your current
job is the best one available for you, or whether it's time to flex your employment
search muscles. Regardless of title or industry, professionals who take time out
on a periodic basis to evaluate and plan their careers will advance faster, earn
more money, and stay ahead of their peers in their personal and professional development.
There are a number of questions to ask when you give your
career a thorough physical examination. It is important to periodically take
time and distance to answer these queries objectively and carefully.