How to start the year with a bang (to your career)

Nick Goddard

If there's one thing that 2020 taught us it's that life can be unpredictable. Yet one thing we can predict about that unpredictability is that it will lead to new opportunities. If you're keen to put yourself in the best possible position to excel in your career in 2021, we're here to help. Read on to discover our top tips to help you upskill, adapt to whatever life throws your way, and achieve your career goals.

Diversify

The problem with surrounding yourself with similar people from similar backgrounds is that your collective output is likely to be, well, similar. A work environment that is effectively an echo chamber is free from challenges, which limits the opportunity for growth.

Choosing to work with a diverse team leads to a diversity of thought, which results in better decision-making. Working alongside a diverse range of people (be it race, gender, age, or physical and mental health) leads to a more collaborative, resilient approach that will broaden your mindset and leave you better placed to thrive.

Think critically

Your character is made up of millions of experiences and references logged away in your conscious and subconscious memory? Every time you're faced with a decision, these memories come into play to help drive your judgement.

When it comes to making business decisions, the key is to ensure you have clearly defined the ‘desired outcome’. Then take time to ensure the ‘desired outcome’ is aligned to the shared 'organisational character' rather than your individual character. The organisational character is formed from your company's vision, purpose, and values. These provide the foundation for thinking critically, making appropriate decisions, and driving progress.

Want to know more about effective decision-making? Check out our practical guide here.

Focus on inclusive leadership

Ask any successful person what helped them achieve their goals and they'll mention a mentor or role model who guided them on their journey.

Whether it's someone within your firm or a long-distance source of inspiration, choosing a mentor figure can positively impact your professional mindset and behaviour. Alternatively, this could be the year to position yourself as a mentor within your company and help junior colleagues to become the best versions of themselves.

Whether you are the mentor or mentee, focusing on positive inclusive leadership is a source of motivation and inspiration that will help build confidence, boost resilience, and empower you to take responsibility for your career.

Invest in yourself

We know from experience that when it comes to career success the most important asset is you. Choosing to focus on investing in your skill set will help improve your outlook at all levels. You can find out more about our upskilling services, which includes a Critical Thinking Series and Leadership programme, here.

"The tools and techniques were incredibly useful, I can’t believe the way I was operating prior to this programme. I now feel fully empowered.” ABSTRACT Delegate

We've worked with some of the largest FTSE 100 companies to create real beneficial change for their people. We'd love to work with you too.

You can find out how we can partner with you or your company here through our ACCELERATE programme here.

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