14 answers
Khadijah
Student
Laurel, Maryland
1
Question
Asked
976 views
What strategies and approaches have you found most effective in achieving long-term career growth and success in your field, and how have you balanced personal and professional development to attain your future goals?
In my experience, the key to long-term career growth and success has been a combination of continuous learning and building a strong professional network. Staying updated on industry trends and acquiring new skills through courses, workshops, or conferences has been essential. Additionally, finding mentors and collaborators within your field can provide valuable guidance and opportunities.
Balancing personal and professional development involves setting clear priorities and boundaries. Time management and goal setting are crucial. You need to know what you want to achieve in your career and personal life. Regularly reviewing and adjusting these goals as circumstances change is important.
Achieving future goals often requires patience and persistence. It's not always a linear path. Embracing challenges and setbacks as opportunities to learn and grow is crucial. Lastly, don't forget to take care of your well-being. Physical and mental health play a significant role in achieving long-term success
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14 answers
Charles Thompson
IT Consultant
3
Answers
Wellington, New Zealand
Updated
Charles’s Answer
All these are great answers.
1. A.B.L. --- always be learning!
2. Remember to set aside some time in your regular schedule to learn something new
3. Talk to people about what they do ask "what are you learning?" (or studying)
4. Don't assume you can't change! Many people successfully change careers in their 30's, 40's and later!
I recommend finding free online learning platforms and institutions. Some community colleges and universities offer free courses, and many companies offer free training in their products. Here's an example: Salesforce (a big international software company) provides free self-paced online training on their Trailhead platform (trailhead.com).
Regarding changing careers: imagine what an athlete goes through. If they are devoted professionals, they rely on their bodies for their livelihood, and we all get old. At some point, even the top superstars need to retire from their sport and find something else to do with their life. Last year, I helped introduce an Americal professional rugby player to a potential career in business, as a team coach or consultant in team building.
1. A.B.L. --- always be learning!
2. Remember to set aside some time in your regular schedule to learn something new
3. Talk to people about what they do ask "what are you learning?" (or studying)
4. Don't assume you can't change! Many people successfully change careers in their 30's, 40's and later!
I recommend finding free online learning platforms and institutions. Some community colleges and universities offer free courses, and many companies offer free training in their products. Here's an example: Salesforce (a big international software company) provides free self-paced online training on their Trailhead platform (trailhead.com).
Regarding changing careers: imagine what an athlete goes through. If they are devoted professionals, they rely on their bodies for their livelihood, and we all get old. At some point, even the top superstars need to retire from their sport and find something else to do with their life. Last year, I helped introduce an Americal professional rugby player to a potential career in business, as a team coach or consultant in team building.
Robert Gott
Senior Manager, Marketing
1
Answer
Saint Paul, Minnesota
Updated
Robert’s Answer
Hi Khadijah! This is a great question and one that resonates with me. I've had a few careers; I'm in my 3rd and working towards achieving long-term career growth and success in my new role.
I started as a baker/pastry chef and then ran bakeries, finishing that 'career' as a consultant. I achieved a high level of success in the field, largely because I loved it! I networked and learned from others, read and experimented with the learnings, and always tried to improve my skills. I envisioned this as my forever career, Sadly, I had to move on when I developed an allergy to flour.
In my next career, I was a chef, restaurateur, and event planner/caterer. I was in this career for 15 fulfilling years, owning a couple of businesses. These businesses succeeded largely with hustle, curiosity, and a desire always to improve. It was a continual learning process. We had a corporate goal of improving everywhere, in all aspects of the business. The biggest challenge in this business was balancing personal and professional development, and it's a regret that I have from that time of my life. If I could go back in time, I would spend more time fostering friendships and hobbies.
I'm now working in a marketing role in tech. This was an unexpected transition to a job that is far from what I spent my early years doing. I enjoy my work and see this as a long career path. I love learning new things, and this job offers constant learning opportunities!
A theme throughout my careers is to lean into curiosity and to approach work with a beginner's mind. Learn from others, take successes and try to improve on them, and learn from your failures. I think the same is true with personal development; try new things, meet new people, and spend time growing the hobbies, habits, and friendships that you enjoy. Finally, don't be afraid to try new things!
I started as a baker/pastry chef and then ran bakeries, finishing that 'career' as a consultant. I achieved a high level of success in the field, largely because I loved it! I networked and learned from others, read and experimented with the learnings, and always tried to improve my skills. I envisioned this as my forever career, Sadly, I had to move on when I developed an allergy to flour.
In my next career, I was a chef, restaurateur, and event planner/caterer. I was in this career for 15 fulfilling years, owning a couple of businesses. These businesses succeeded largely with hustle, curiosity, and a desire always to improve. It was a continual learning process. We had a corporate goal of improving everywhere, in all aspects of the business. The biggest challenge in this business was balancing personal and professional development, and it's a regret that I have from that time of my life. If I could go back in time, I would spend more time fostering friendships and hobbies.
I'm now working in a marketing role in tech. This was an unexpected transition to a job that is far from what I spent my early years doing. I enjoy my work and see this as a long career path. I love learning new things, and this job offers constant learning opportunities!
A theme throughout my careers is to lean into curiosity and to approach work with a beginner's mind. Learn from others, take successes and try to improve on them, and learn from your failures. I think the same is true with personal development; try new things, meet new people, and spend time growing the hobbies, habits, and friendships that you enjoy. Finally, don't be afraid to try new things!
Steven Wilder
Software Development
3
Answers
Herndon, Virginia
Updated
Steven’s Answer
It's clear that you have a solid grasp on what it takes to flourish and achieve success, particularly in the dynamic world of Computing. This is a field where technology is perpetually evolving and shifting, and today's sought-after skills might be outdated tomorrow.
Building connections and actively listening to your peers in the industry will guide you in identifying the skills that are currently in high demand. This sector is driven by self-starters and teams who are passionate about innovation and enhancing existing systems. Above all, a love for learning will be your steadfast companion throughout your professional journey.
The industry highly values problem solvers, and in my opinion, the best problem solvers are those who can truly understand a person's needs in order to address their challenges. In this regard, honing your communication skills can give you a significant edge in this field. And always bear in mind, one of the most effective communication skills is simply being an attentive listener.
Building connections and actively listening to your peers in the industry will guide you in identifying the skills that are currently in high demand. This sector is driven by self-starters and teams who are passionate about innovation and enhancing existing systems. Above all, a love for learning will be your steadfast companion throughout your professional journey.
The industry highly values problem solvers, and in my opinion, the best problem solvers are those who can truly understand a person's needs in order to address their challenges. In this regard, honing your communication skills can give you a significant edge in this field. And always bear in mind, one of the most effective communication skills is simply being an attentive listener.
Madelyn Varella
Marketing
4
Answers
Austin, Texas
Updated
Madelyn’s Answer
What a great question.
I think your answer is pretty solid - you've got the right idea.
1. Stay curious - not just about your field, but about the world. You have to enjoy your work, as success doesn't mean ease; it means it is more strategic and more integrated with the world around you. Enjoy the process and the details.
2. Realize it's just work. There is a difference between Life and Work. Do your very best at work, but go live your Life, too.
3. The only constant is change. You can enjoy that or try to fight it. If you fight, you will stay frustrated. Go with the flow.
4. Culture wins. Find a place you can trust, love, and be yourself, and build teams. Be a good leader, and figure out what that means early. Set good examples and try to leave things better than you found them.
Someone else has said ask people what they are reading and enjoying - I love that and endorse it completely.
And overall, try to enjoy the learning.
Best luck to you,
Madelyn
Keep reading.
I think your answer is pretty solid - you've got the right idea.
1. Stay curious - not just about your field, but about the world. You have to enjoy your work, as success doesn't mean ease; it means it is more strategic and more integrated with the world around you. Enjoy the process and the details.
2. Realize it's just work. There is a difference between Life and Work. Do your very best at work, but go live your Life, too.
3. The only constant is change. You can enjoy that or try to fight it. If you fight, you will stay frustrated. Go with the flow.
4. Culture wins. Find a place you can trust, love, and be yourself, and build teams. Be a good leader, and figure out what that means early. Set good examples and try to leave things better than you found them.
Someone else has said ask people what they are reading and enjoying - I love that and endorse it completely.
And overall, try to enjoy the learning.
Best luck to you,
Madelyn
Madelyn recommends the following next steps:
Sharin Shivakumar
Sales Operations Professional
4
Answers
Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
Updated
Sharin’s Answer
Hello Khadijah! What a fantastic inquiry you've made. I firmly believe that the path to a successful career isn't always pre-planned, and there's a lot to learn along the way. It's crucial to keep an open mind and be ready to embrace new challenges. This approach has proven successful for me.
Remember, doing your job to the best of your ability is the first step towards success. Don't be too hard on yourself, but strive to thoroughly understand your role and continually seek opportunities to add value.
I've grown significantly from the mistakes I've made in my career, and they've played a significant role in shaping my future. Remember, even in loss, there's a lesson to be learned.
Best of luck on your journey!
Remember, doing your job to the best of your ability is the first step towards success. Don't be too hard on yourself, but strive to thoroughly understand your role and continually seek opportunities to add value.
I've grown significantly from the mistakes I've made in my career, and they've played a significant role in shaping my future. Remember, even in loss, there's a lesson to be learned.
Best of luck on your journey!
Diana Lozano
Developer ASIC
2
Answers
Malmö, Skåne County, Sweden
Updated
Diana’s Answer
Hi Khadijah!
Wonderful questions, and I find myself pondering them every day. Here are the strategies I follow:
Persistence and Resilience: I believe in relentlessly pursuing my dreams, but I also understand that life can change in the blink of an eye. Being resilient in the face of challenges is essential.
Networking: Building a robust professional network has been instrumental in discovering new and exciting career opportunities.
Work-Life Balance: When it comes to personal goals, I encourage a clear separation between work and personal life. After 5 pm, I make a conscious effort to shift my focus to self-care, family, and friends. Prioritizing well-being is key to long-term success and happiness.
Wonderful questions, and I find myself pondering them every day. Here are the strategies I follow:
Persistence and Resilience: I believe in relentlessly pursuing my dreams, but I also understand that life can change in the blink of an eye. Being resilient in the face of challenges is essential.
Networking: Building a robust professional network has been instrumental in discovering new and exciting career opportunities.
Work-Life Balance: When it comes to personal goals, I encourage a clear separation between work and personal life. After 5 pm, I make a conscious effort to shift my focus to self-care, family, and friends. Prioritizing well-being is key to long-term success and happiness.
Srinivasan Venkatarajan
Azure Data & AI - Partner Sales
3
Answers
Princeton, New Jersey
Updated
Srinivasan’s Answer
Here is my advice. I am keeping it general enough but actionable.
Define your long term career vision and break it down into smaller and manageable goals. Identify the skills, knowledge, and resources that you need to achieve each goal and use tools like Bing to search for relevant information and learning opportunities. Track your progress and celebrate your achievements along the way. Seek feedback and guidance from others who can support you in your career journey.
Hope this helps.
Define your long term career vision and break it down into smaller and manageable goals. Identify the skills, knowledge, and resources that you need to achieve each goal and use tools like Bing to search for relevant information and learning opportunities. Track your progress and celebrate your achievements along the way. Seek feedback and guidance from others who can support you in your career journey.
Hope this helps.
Sergei Dmitriev
OEM
6
Answers
Istanbul, Turkey
Updated
Sergei’s Answer
That's an excellent question, and many are on the hunt for the secret to success. I believe the key to triumph lies in two main areas. Firstly, it's crucial to pick a path that truly resonates with your interests. Secondly, and perhaps even more vital, is the concept of relentless perseverance. Success demands that you keep moving forward, constantly growing and exploring, without pause. Whether it's a day or a week, any break in progress can start to chip away at your success. The moment you think you've done enough is the very moment you should push harder. Keep this in mind and success will surely be yours.
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity.
3855
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hi Khadijah,
For a flourishing career in the long run, it's crucial to keep learning and growing your professional connections.
Staying in the loop with the latest industry trends and honing new skills is key. This can be achieved through continuous learning. You might want to think about enrolling in relevant courses, participating in workshops or conferences, or diving into books or articles that can broaden your understanding. This approach not only keeps you ahead in your field but also equips you to handle changes and embrace new challenges.
Equally significant is cultivating a robust professional network. Try to find mentors and collaborators in your field who can offer insightful advice and opportunities. You can do this by attending industry gatherings, becoming part of professional groups, and participating in online forums. A solid network can pave the way to fresh opportunities, provide constructive feedback, and keep you updated on industry happenings.
To strike a balance between personal growth and professional advancement, it's important to set clear objectives for both areas of your life. Pinpoint what you aspire to achieve in your career and personal life. Develop a strategy to reach these objectives, and keep checking your progress to ensure you're heading in the right direction.
Helpful References:
1. "Continuous Learning and Professional Development: The Key to Long-Term Career Success" by the World Economic Forum
2. "The Importance of Networking for Career Success" by Forbes
3. "Balancing Personal and Professional Development for Long-Term Career Growth" by Harvard Business Review
Note: You can easily find these authoritative references using a search engine or visiting a library.
For a flourishing career in the long run, it's crucial to keep learning and growing your professional connections.
Staying in the loop with the latest industry trends and honing new skills is key. This can be achieved through continuous learning. You might want to think about enrolling in relevant courses, participating in workshops or conferences, or diving into books or articles that can broaden your understanding. This approach not only keeps you ahead in your field but also equips you to handle changes and embrace new challenges.
Equally significant is cultivating a robust professional network. Try to find mentors and collaborators in your field who can offer insightful advice and opportunities. You can do this by attending industry gatherings, becoming part of professional groups, and participating in online forums. A solid network can pave the way to fresh opportunities, provide constructive feedback, and keep you updated on industry happenings.
To strike a balance between personal growth and professional advancement, it's important to set clear objectives for both areas of your life. Pinpoint what you aspire to achieve in your career and personal life. Develop a strategy to reach these objectives, and keep checking your progress to ensure you're heading in the right direction.
Helpful References:
1. "Continuous Learning and Professional Development: The Key to Long-Term Career Success" by the World Economic Forum
2. "The Importance of Networking for Career Success" by Forbes
3. "Balancing Personal and Professional Development for Long-Term Career Growth" by Harvard Business Review
Note: You can easily find these authoritative references using a search engine or visiting a library.
Sheila Schultz
Engineering Leader
30
Answers
Brighton, Michigan
Updated
Sheila’s Answer
Hi – thanks for the great question. I had a long career as an engineer and engineering leader. For myself, I took on roles which enabled me to continually grow technically and as a leader. I also took on career “shifts”, taking on stretch assignments which were quite different than the position I was in. This enabled great learning and also opened future career doors. I was a mentor to many others, and I leveraged mentors for myself along the journey. From a work-life balance perspective, I went flex service for many years, to enable the right balance for myself and my family. Best wishes as you venture through your career.
Andrew Rydzewski
HR Data Analyst
24
Answers
Collegeville, Pennsylvania
Updated
Andrew’s Answer
Hi Khadijah - Your question is an excellent one and made me smile because you somewhat answered it yourself! There are many strategies for career planning and development - but the very first step in putting a very basic plan down on paper (or your Notes app of choice). Once you have a rough draft of your interests and motivations in life, it will be good to come back and revisit that as time goes on. You can check it every month, a few times a year or once every two years - but the important thing is to check your assumptions (do I still want to work in science?), check the environment (does the world still need blacksmiths?) and check your recent achievements (did I get good feedback from teachers, coaches. parents or friends). Once you make a self-assessment, it is time to make any adjustments to the plan and chart your course.
When putting your "action items" together, remember to take baby steps... you want to acquire technical skills, interpersonal skills, and strategic skills. For technical skills find a mentor in the discipline you are most interested in. Ask them what they like about it and sit back and relax as they tell you why they love it or why they hate it. To build your interpersonal skills, ask everyone questions and when someone is excited to answer, you are succeeding, if people shun from the question, try different ways to get to what's bugging them. To get strategic skills, its time to take a step back from the details and ask the "why" questions. Why do people want to stand in line for coffee for 15 minutes to get a cup with their name misspelled on it for $8? Can I do it better? Should I do it better for a lower price? Should I do it better for a higher price? Should I make lousy coffee at a higher price with an even longer wait? To get these answers for your business model, start flexing your interpersonal skills muscles by asking people lots and lots of questions and it will paint a picture about the strategy you want to employ. Good luck, you are already asking great questions!
When putting your "action items" together, remember to take baby steps... you want to acquire technical skills, interpersonal skills, and strategic skills. For technical skills find a mentor in the discipline you are most interested in. Ask them what they like about it and sit back and relax as they tell you why they love it or why they hate it. To build your interpersonal skills, ask everyone questions and when someone is excited to answer, you are succeeding, if people shun from the question, try different ways to get to what's bugging them. To get strategic skills, its time to take a step back from the details and ask the "why" questions. Why do people want to stand in line for coffee for 15 minutes to get a cup with their name misspelled on it for $8? Can I do it better? Should I do it better for a lower price? Should I do it better for a higher price? Should I make lousy coffee at a higher price with an even longer wait? To get these answers for your business model, start flexing your interpersonal skills muscles by asking people lots and lots of questions and it will paint a picture about the strategy you want to employ. Good luck, you are already asking great questions!
Juhi Khanna
2
Answers
Singapore
Updated
Juhi’s Answer
Response from a Fresh Recruit at Cloudera
You've done a remarkable job answering your own question! Keep up the fantastic work! To add to what you've already mentioned, focus on intent-based learning and continuous growth.
Recommended Future Actions:
If you haven't yet, consider reading "Getting Things Done" by David Allen. It's an excellent resource for establishing and managing your priorities and objectives.
Explore books and podcasts centered around personal development to ensure a well-rounded approach.
Remember, it's essential to enjoy the journey. If you're not having fun, it might all seem pointless. Keep a positive attitude and enjoy the process! 🙂
You've done a remarkable job answering your own question! Keep up the fantastic work! To add to what you've already mentioned, focus on intent-based learning and continuous growth.
Recommended Future Actions:
If you haven't yet, consider reading "Getting Things Done" by David Allen. It's an excellent resource for establishing and managing your priorities and objectives.
Explore books and podcasts centered around personal development to ensure a well-rounded approach.
Remember, it's essential to enjoy the journey. If you're not having fun, it might all seem pointless. Keep a positive attitude and enjoy the process! 🙂
Marika Elena Garay
Social Impact Professional
7
Answers
Burlingame, California
Updated
Marika Elena’s Answer
Great question! I would encourage you to continually revisit your existing job description. If you find that your job description is expanding due to added tasks or projects you've undertaken, it's crucial to assess whether these additions bring you joy or satisfaction.
On the flip side, it's equally important to keep abreast of job descriptions for positions that pique your interest. Do you find certain job descriptions stirring a sense of excitement within you, making you think, "This could be an ideal job for me!" or "This role could be my dream job!"? Or does your current job description still ignite that spark of enthusiasm in you?
Reflecting on these questions can guide you in understanding your current career path, identifying tasks that you're doing but aren't particularly thrilled about, and pinpointing what you aspire to do in your future role. Moreover, this exercise can help you determine if you're inclined towards a career or industry shift that propels you from your current field to one that aligns better with your long-term goals or personal life journey.
On the flip side, it's equally important to keep abreast of job descriptions for positions that pique your interest. Do you find certain job descriptions stirring a sense of excitement within you, making you think, "This could be an ideal job for me!" or "This role could be my dream job!"? Or does your current job description still ignite that spark of enthusiasm in you?
Reflecting on these questions can guide you in understanding your current career path, identifying tasks that you're doing but aren't particularly thrilled about, and pinpointing what you aspire to do in your future role. Moreover, this exercise can help you determine if you're inclined towards a career or industry shift that propels you from your current field to one that aligns better with your long-term goals or personal life journey.
Robyn Schwartz
Cybersecurity
11
Answers
Chicago, Illinois
Updated
Robyn’s Answer
Believing in what you do is the cornerstone of success. It's about doing something that not only brings value to others, but also gives you a sense of genuine contribution to things that matter to you and align with your worldview. Remember, success is a personal journey, unique to each of us.
Similarly, your work lifestyle is a personal affair. It's essential to create a balance that caters to both your work and personal needs. This balance should be a comfortable fit for your lifestyle, ensuring that you maintain balance and sense of self. Your path may not be what you expect, but it should be what you need.
Similarly, your work lifestyle is a personal affair. It's essential to create a balance that caters to both your work and personal needs. This balance should be a comfortable fit for your lifestyle, ensuring that you maintain balance and sense of self. Your path may not be what you expect, but it should be what you need.