Five ways to enhance your career

Five ways to enhance your career


The old adage says, “A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush.” This wisdom is applicable to job seekers. It is usually far easier to find another job if you’re already employed.

But how can you ensure that the worst never happens to you — that you’re never left without a job and possibilities for your next opportunity?

Here are five suggestions:

Keep thinking positive.

It sounds deceptively simple, but try embracing the power of positive thinking when you’re thinking about your career.

According to a career coach, Brown-Volkman, “When you tell yourself something bad will happen to your job, something bad will probably happen. If you tell yourself that you are marketable and confident and that you will always be working, your words can make this true.”

Keep thinking ahead.

If you’re not following trends within your particular industry, you could be caught off guard by a layoff.

Brown-Volkman, whose practice is based in New York, says, “If your job is being eliminated or outsourced, you will want to know about it before you are in the room with the human resources person telling you that your job is going away.”

She urges professionals to “Look for trends and then train yourself in growth areas. Having the right skills at the right time ensures that no matter what is happening around you, you will be needed and employable.”

Keep your resume ready.

Having your resume at the ready gives you confidence. You always know that if opportunity casually knocks, you’re prepared to answer.

Keep cultivating your network.

Brown-Volkman, author of “Don’t Blow It: The Right Words for the Right Job,” believes networking should always be a part of your professional life.

She states, “If you start to network only when you need something, you will have a lot of catching up to do.” Instead of waiting until the 11th hour, she advises workers to network every day.

Keep your eyes and ears open.

You’re up on the trends. You’re networking. You’ve got a current resume. You’re thinking positive thoughts.