Keep It Moving: Maintaining Momentum in Your Career

By Sharon Fleshman

Whether you want to get a running start at your new job, invigorate your current career, or make a complete shift, being proactive is always a wise move.  Consider the following strategies and commit to moving forward with at least one action step by the end of the summer.

Conduct Self-Assessment: What do you want and what can you offer?

• Reflect on past experiences and accomplishments and consider where you were energized and made impact.
• Assess your skills, interests, personality traits and values using informal worksheets or career inventories.
• Read about careers and job announcements and see what resonates with you.
• Read more about self-assessment here.

Build Your Network: With whom should you exchange insight and information?

• Conduct informational interviews via resources such as the Penn Alumni Career Network and LinkedIn.
• Join a professional association or career-related group.
• Set up a LinkedIn profile.
• Become active in your alumni organization and online groups.

Plan for Professional Development: What do you need to learn and strengthen?

• Attend a career-related seminar or conference.
• Take a class.
• Apply to get a certificate or another degree.
• Participate in a project that will help you develop targeted skills and broaden your exposure.
• Read more about professional development here.

Cultivate Professional Presence:  How can you find new opportunities to apply, share, and highlight your skills, strengths and expertise?

• Join a committee in your office or in a professional association.
• Write an article for a blog or newsletter.
• Initiate or participate in a social media discussion on LinkedIn or Twitter.
• Present at a meeting or conference.
• Volunteer at an organization of interest.

Author: Sharon

Sharon Fleshman is the Senior Associate Director of Career Services for students in Education, Nursing and Social Policy & Practice. View all posts by Sharon