Sunday, March 23, 2014

SPRING CLEANING TIME

Out With the Old, In With The New.
2014 data, from the University of Scranton Department of Clinical Psychology, shows that only 8% of Americans successfully achieve their resolutions.  And, 36% of resolution makers don't keep those resolutions longer than a month.

Spring Has Sprung.
If you've abandoned the commitments you made when you ushered in the new year;  spring is the perfect time to rekindle those dashed hopes and broken promises.

Time to Freshen Up.
Here's your professional spring cleaning to-do list:

1. Set goals. If you're not in the habit of making annual career goals, you should start. Keep in mind,
if you don't know where you're going, it will be tough to get there.

2. Document your successes. Take stock of your accomplishments by listing them out.  Success is a great motivator and breeds more success.

3. Consider acquiring new skills. You might need new skills to move ahead with your career plans.  Strategize about how you can get them. Talk to your leadership about opportunities to take on new projects as well.

4. Manage your reputation. You are your brand; make sure your reputation speaks for itself. How can you influence what others know about you? Create online profiles in social networks like LinkedIn and Twitter that highlight your expertise. Make sure your online profiles feature the information you want people to know about you when they google your name.

5. Keep an eye on your future. Have you thought about the outlook of your company or your industry? Are jobs moving overseas? Are opportunities going to freelancers? Is your role easily automated? Be realistic and brutally honest; considering actions you should take if prospects aren't promising.

6. Break out of your rut. Be honest: is it time to make a move? If you've been doing the "same old thing" for years, it may be time for a change. There's no time like the present.

7. Join a professional associationProfessional organizations provide many opportunities to volunteer and get involved. Look for a small role to start, and plan to ramp up your involvement in ways the will add to your skill-set.

8. Be flexible. Try to be open to new ideas and new ways to do things.  Make a goal to say "yes" more and "no" less, when asked to try something new.

9. Make new friends. You've heard that networking is the best way to get a job; it's also a great way to advance even if you're not looking for one.  The more people who know, admire and trust you, the more opportunities will be available to you.

10. Keep an eye on the important things. Don't forget to stop and smell the proverbial roses. If you've been neglecting your health, your family or your friends, make a point to address those issues throughout the remainder of the year.

www.yourenhance.com

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