4 Rules to Follow And 4 Rules To Break: Finding Success In A Fast Changing Workplace
In the current job market it’s often difficult to figure out what we should and shouldn’t be doing. In this post we let you know the 4 simple rules you need to stick to and the 4 rules you can ignore.
The job market is constantly changing and evolving in different ways that many experts in the field failed to predict. At one point, job seekers find several job opportunities knocking at their doors, and in other instances, job seekers find a dearth of available jobs, forcing them to take on jobs that they are overqualified for. Whether you recently graduated or are currently gainfully employed, it is a good idea to keep tabs on the current beat of the job market, allowing you to gauge your competitiveness. Employees also need to stay attuned to the career rules currently at play in the job market. Knowing which of these to follow and which of these to break can boost your competitiveness and set you apart from other job seekers. Here are a few career success tips that will help you better adapt to a fast-changing workplace.
Rules to follow
Having the ability to change and adapt to these rules can help make you relevant as a job seeker and enable you to thrive as an employee. What are the rules that govern the workplace that you need to know?
Embrace new opportunities
Your parents probably worked for the same company for years or even decades. Back then, the idea of embracing exciting new opportunities took a backseat to cultivating loyalty to an organization. But with the evolution of the job market and trends like automation and outsourcing becoming the norm, you are doing your career a big disservice by shunning opportunities that may come your way. That does not mean that you should job hop. Evaluate each opportunity that passes your way and grab those that will boost your career upward.
Be agile
Perhaps you worked hard to pursue a career path. Certainly, that is nothing to frown upon. But as the job market continues to change, more and more people find success by veering off from the initial path they have set for themselves. This simply means that in order to thrive, you will need to be willing and ready to embrace change and to adapt.
Upgrade yourself
Keep yourself updated about the latest news about the job market. Find out which skills are much sought after by employers. From there, you can make the necessary adjustments to learn and develop new skills. It can be as simple as setting aside time to read relevant blogs and watch online videos, enrolling in relevant courses, and getting help from a personal coach.
Network like a pro
Go out and meet new people. Expand your network. Widening your network helps you in a few key ways. For one, being surrounded by the right people can help you boost your skills and mindset. Also, the people in your network can help open new doors for you.
Rules to break
Often, people are handed down rules that they have been accustomed to following. But just because everyone else is doing it, it does not mean that you should, too. Most of these rules are simply outdated and do not reflect the changing times.
Grin and bear it
Some people stick to jobs that, simply put, make them unhappy. Despite their sad situation, they grin and bear it, holding out because of their paychecks. True, you shouldn’t impulsively hop from one job to another. But you should also know when to leave. Perhaps you have found yourself stagnating, or maybe you can no longer bear with your boss. Evaluate your position. Determine whether it’s still worth staying in your current job or you feel that you would be better off finding other opportunities elsewhere.
Apply for jobs you are qualified for
One common piece of career advice that you will hear is that you should only apply for positions that you are qualified for. According to this rule, if you apply for a position that you are barely qualified for, then you are wasting your time as well as the recruiter’s time. However, some employers choose to hire good candidates even when they have limited experience or knowledge in relation to the position. In fact, some employers acknowledge that many of the skills required for a job can be learned later on.
You’re too old for school
Sometimes, before you can apply for a job, you need to make the necessary preparations. In some cases, that means going back to school. Many professionals think that after graduating or even taking advanced courses, you will be all set for life. The truth is, there is no age limit to learning. If going back to school means that you are going to get more opportunities, do not let your age hinder you.
Work can only be done at the office
Advances in computer technology and the internet have allowed employees to put in quality work right in the comfort of their homes. In turn, this has allowed them to allocate more time to other facets of life. If you are considering the idea of working from home, do not hesitate to ask your employees. Perhaps, your employer already has policies drafted regarding this matter. Or maybe your boss is open to such a work arrangement. You’ll never know if you do not ask. By recognizing which rules to follow and which ones to set aside, you can give your career a gentle nudge toward a more suitable path to professional success and satisfaction.
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