Monitoring career development is difficult. It requires us to do things that are generally perceived as unpleasant: asking for feedback and critically assessing ourselves. So, many of us choose another route: work quietly and efficiently, and assume that this will move you ahead. Unfortunately, many well-intentioned employees who plod along and competently do their jobs don't move anywhere.
In order to move ahead, you have to find out where you stand.
In order to move ahead, you have to find out where you stand. Some obvious signs of how your career is moving (without having to ask for feedback) are material. Promotions, raises, bonuses, stock options and other nice perks are safe indicators that you are doing something right. However, these rewards are not the only signs a career is progressing.
The more subtle indicator of career momentum is how people respond to you. Karen Hanen, a leadership and career coach in Calabases, California, says the three tell-all terms to gauge how you are perceived, and therefore how your career is moving, are: "requested," "visible" and "included."
You are "requested" when . . .
It's a good sign when coworkers and clients ask or volunteer to work with you. Hanen says that people who seek your advice or input are a testimony to their respect for your talents and skills. "Clients won't waste time with those who don't get the job done. The same holds for colleagues, managers and other employees." So, the more your expertise is sought, the faster you are accelerating in your area. Another positive sign that you're heading in the right direction is if you are requested to chair or participate on a task force or committee whose function is important to the core business of the organization.
You are "visible" when . . .
A high profile assignment with visibility and exposure to senior management is a nice plum that can potentially yield promotions and raises, Hanen says. Also, if a superior wades through 40 e-mails and responds to yours first, that's a strong indication your career is going in the right direction. If on the other hand, two weeks have passed and your e-mail and voicemail pleas have gone unanswered, your career momentum needs a jolt.
You are included when . . .
Another telltale sign that your career is on the upswing is what Hanen calls the "inclusion factor." Are you included in the formal as well as the informal communication networks throughout your department or organization? Inclusion in important meetings, lunches/dinners, and other business functions shows that your name is known and your reputation is growing. If you have been invited to attend leadership or professional development functions along with those in more senior positions, consider that kudos. Moreover, Hanen says, if your manager consistently seeks your opinions, gives you objective feedback and includes you in casual conversations or even impromptu meetings, you should assume those are all signs of a career in high gear.
