Building a Career Roadmap

You have probably read dozens of articles, talked to countless people at networking events, and even paid for some online miracle career roadmap guide, but here you are still scratching your head wondering what you need to do to build the career roadmap you want. Does this sound familiar?

You are not alone. Thousands of people, just like you are asking this very question on a daily basis. However, very few actually build a career roadmap that will work for them. Here are just a few tips and advice to help you build that roadmap that will lead you to the job you want:

The number one problem most people fall victim to is following the same path, over and over again. If you want to build a path that will set you up for the career you want, you must commit to following an unusual path. Step outside your comfort zone and work in positions that normally you would not do in your profession. For example, if you want to become a carpenter, perhaps you take some jobs outside the normal painter, dry wall hanger, etc. Maybe you take one doing roofing, or excavation. Taking jobs outside your normal path will not only give you more insight and skills but will help you become more rounded.
As you conduct research on the type of career you want, make sure that you expand that research. Do not stick with just doing online searches, or even just speaking with a few co-workers. You need to join a few networking groups and ask questions that really give you an insight into that career.
As you learn more about your career roadmap, you must remember to pay it forward. It is important that you show your appreciation to those that have helped you. You can volunteer or even become a mentor for someone else. When you implement this into your roadmap, it will help clarify your goals.
Most importantly, when working on your career roadmap, you must change jobs thoughtfully and purposefully. Jumping from job to job will not benefit you. Make sure you do not “burn any bridge” and always make sure that the move you are about to make benefits your overall goals.

You can build a career roadmap easily when you know what pieces are needed. Follow these suggestions and watch the end of your road come into focus.