Have you ever heard the phrase “Never stop learning” before? Of course you have. Chances are good that you’ve seen it on television, heard it recited by a teacher or even come across it plastered on a motivational poster. Though the sources may differ, the message itself is sound—and it’s not just for the halls of academia any longer.
In today’s job market, you can’t afford to stop learning. Industries change quickly, new technologies are introduced every day, and previously superior methods for accomplishing tasks go the way of VCRs, cassette tapes and switchboard operators. To keep pace and advance in today’s professional world, you need to heed that time-honored mantra and never stop learning.
To do just that, here are five things you should do every day to grow your professional IQ and ensure you never stop advancing professionally:
- Set a goal and pursue it with vigor. What’s your professional goal? Is to attain a new job, have a better performance review, or increase your productivity? Setting your own goals challenges you to think about what really matters to you professionally and then pursue your goals. The happiest professionals understand what their goals are and know how to work toward them. Most importantly, once you accomplish your goal, don’t waste time before setting the next one.
- Don’t be afraid to ask for what you want. Competent employees stay where they are. If you want to advance professionally, you need to be more than competent and ask for the job you want. Do your best work every day and make sure your boss is aware of your accomplishments. Many employees make the mistake of assuming their boss is aware of their day-to-day activities. Let your boss know what you’re doing, what you‘ve done, and where you want to be—and do it all in a tasteful manner.
- Always be networking. Whether you’re looking for a new job or you want to advance in your current role, networking can help. Your network should include friends, colleagues, mentors, and referrals. Make use of sights like LinkedIn and grow your networking community as well. Jobs will come and go as you progress throughout your career, but a solid network remains a benefit in any market.
- Focus on the positive. Negative experiences should be learned from and never dwelled upon. Instead, focus on your positive experiences. Placing your attention here will make you happier in your professional life, lead to better work, and open the door for advancement.
- Think of yourself as a contractor. For most people, the single-career job is history. In fact, today the average person changes jobs more than 11 times, according to research from The Bureau of Labor Statistics. Recognize this and understand that the job you hold now is not guaranteed to remain yours for life. This will help you ward off complacency so you can remain motivated to do your best work and prepare for that next promotion or other opportunity.
