To keep advancing in and growing your career, you must set long-term career goals. Without goals, you do not have a direction, which means you will spin your wheels. Long-term goals are ones that you expect to reach within 3 to 5 years. How do you set practical long-term goals and grow your career?
Let’s discuss 4 strategies for setting realistic goals that will lead to career success!
Set Specific, Yet Realistic Career Goals
Do a lot of soul searching and think about where you want your career to be in the next 3-5 years. It is okay to dream big, but make sure the goals are realistic and attainable during this time span.
For instance, let’s say you are a data entry clerk but wish to become a certified public accountant. A degree takes at least 4 years to obtain. It is unrealistic to say that you will earn your degree/certification and open your own firm in five years. Instead, make the goal that within seven years, you will be employed as a CPA with the possibility of opening your own firm in the near future.
Keep Your Long-Term Goals Positive
Set career goals that are positive. Refrain from saying, “I want to avoid working weekends and nights.” Instead, say, “I want to move into a position with a flexible work schedule so I can spend more time with my family.” Every goal should be something you want to achieve and not what you are trying to stay away from.
Determine How You are Going to Achieve Each Goal
It’s one thing to say you’re going to achieve a goal. It’s another to create a plan out how you are going to achieve it. For each goal, list the steps that you are going to take to make your dream a reality. By writing out a plan for your long-term career goals, you are making them tangible and, therefore, easier to achieve.
Prepare for the Unexpected
Leave yourself some wiggle room. Allow for the unexpected to happen in life. By allotting extra time to achieve your long-term career goals, a minor setback will not derail your entire career plan and leave you feeling helpless and defeated.
Bonus Tip!
Did you know that using a professional staffing firm can help you reach your long-term career goals? Resource Staffing, one of the leading staffing firms in Texas, is dedicated to helping candidates succeed in their careers. One of our experienced recruiters will discuss your long-term career goals. Our staff will then send all open positions your way that match your skill set, pay rate, and career goals. Submit your resume today and let us help you achieve your long-term career goals!