In centuries past, skilled labor was learned through apprenticeship and guild systems in which younger workers were apprenticed to a master. This system is ostensibly long-gone in many, if not most, fields, but the principles still apply. No matter your field, you still need a grand master to guide you and a guild to support you, especially when you are in the early stages of your career. Here are some tips to find their modern equivalents:
Finding a mentor: These days, finding a mentor usually means identifying a more senior-level worker whom you admire. In most cases, experienced workers are flattered that you are taking an interest in them and asking for their advice. Try approaching the one who impresses you the most, and offer to do something for him or her in exchange for his or her advice. For example, you might say, “Mr. So-and-so, I really admire the work you do. As someone still in the early stages of my career, I could really use some advice from someone with your level of experience, and in exchange I’d like to take you out for lunch [or coffee, drinks, etc.]” If your potential mentor turns you down gently, ask if there’s another colleague they’d recommend that you ask.
Finding a community: Most professions have trade organizations of one kind or another. They may be unions, professional groups, industry organizations, etc. If there is no such group in your field, you can still join loosely affiliated groups or even your local Chamber of Commerce. The point is to acquire the support and expertise of a network in a related field.
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It’s been a productive 2011 for you, and your performance review was all congratulations and slaps on the back. But did you come out of that office with a promotion, bonus, or raise? If not any of the above, here’s how to turn those congratulations to cold hard cash.
As the new year dawns, promotions season kicks in. Companies who are evaluating and revamping their yearly goals are likely to move personnel around to fulfill new needs, thus opening up spots for promotions. If you’re just sitting in your cubicle watching everyone around you pack their things for the corner office, it’s clear that something’s wrong. Here are a few possible reasons that you haven’t gotten that promotion yet, and what you need to do to break the rut.
If you’re working at a global corporation, chances are that as you move up the ranks you may be asked to transfer overseas for a time. Obviously moving to another country and trying to do your job in a totally foreign cultural environment is no easy task. But being asked to go overseas is a huge opportunity. If you prove that you can manage a team and do your work effectively in a foreign environment, you’re almost guaranteed a promotion upon your return.