3 Ideas for Career Growth in This New Era

Brief 

In a changing workplace, focus less on linear paths to titles and promotions and instead seek out work that emphasizes interpersonal skills, provides personal growth and adds value to the organization, writes Julie Winkle Giulioni. “Communication, empathy, collaborating, teambuilding, influencing — these are just a few of the high-impact skills that will be necessary and valued no matter what the future brings,” Giulioni writes.

Insight

bulence to pass, the confusion to clear and predictability to return. But even the most steady and steadfast among us are coming to the conclusion that it’s time to take a clear-eyed look at what “career” means in today’s wacky workplace — and how to move forward to create the experience of growth, engagement and satisfaction they desire despite the uncertainty.

Career outcomes used to be clear and defined. We created plans that led to new titles, positions, moves and promotions. But in today’s more volatile and less hierarchical organizations, this may not be as certain as it once was. (And let’s be honest: Those steps up are looking less desirable to many.

limbing today’s corporate ladder comes with a lot more challenges, stress, hours and risk — frequently without the compensation that compensates for it.). That’s why many ambitious (and befuddled) professionals are asking: Without the traditional outcomes — a targeted next role, prescribed pathways or promotion — what does career dev.

1. Find ways to add value

The challenges and sheer complexity facing most organizations right now create an environment in which opportunities to add value are ubiquitous. And the simple intention to do so can trigger a range of developmental and career-supporting outcomes. You’ll enhance your strategic mindset as you learn to discern where and how to add value. You’ll gain a keener understanding of the organization’s priorities and customer needs.

You’ll discover the levers that address problems, streamline processes and enhance satisfaction. You’ll likely expand your network. And you’ll distinguish yourself, building a reputation as a difference-maker while likely experiencing greater meaning in your work.