From the outset, it's important to stress that a professional career can be compared to a marathon, never to a 100-meter race. So, first of all, it's important to be prepared in terms of knowledge of the route (their field of activity), trained in physical endurance and emotional intelligence to overcome obstacles and challenges that will be encountered during the journey.

Researching the topic and compiling various sources of information, here are some actions that can help you prepare along the way:

1st) Evaluate yourself honestly in terms of your professional performance at your current moment. Analyze what you would like to change in your career for the future;

2) Ask your current boss or superior for an assessment. Feedback can give you excellent insight into how to improve your career. If you are not employed, ask colleagues to contribute. Although some criticisms may not be very good to hear, an evaluation can help you understand the point of view of those who are watching you, giving you a chance to create an action plan to improve your performance going forward;

3º) Prepare and calibrate the training required for the intended change, without wasting time. Leave aside activities that take up time and don't contribute to your objectives. Make a list of what you need to focus on and prepare for, setting start and completion dates. Assess the need for more knowledge and take classroom and online courses that will help you “get there”. Stay connected and up-to-date in your field;

4) Make a 3-5 year plan of your journey, setting goals to be achieved annually, quarterly and even monthly, so that you can feel your evolution in the planning carried out at every moment;

5) Monthly, evaluate the execution of your planning. Celebrate a lot with each step achieved. This will give you energy for the rest of the journey;

6) Take on challenges that most of your colleagues would not accept. In addition to positioning yourself as a responsive actor and contributor to the organization, it will give you unique opportunities to interact with other superiors;

7º) Focus on improving your communication verbal and written. They are just as important as the other skills needed for your career;

8) Consider your career as a business, where you need to be efficient and sustainable. Plan how to “sell” your business, how to promote it to the market and how to improve your performance. To do this, interact with social networks that are relevant to your objective, seeking to consolidate your professional reputation and “equip” yourself with the technical and knowledge to “deliver” to their “clients”, the best experience with you.       

9) Good luck and consider a career in MPL Corporate Software. MPL can offer an opportunity for professional growth, supported by the experience of working in large Brazilian and multinational companies, as well as the use of technologies that are more in tune with the moment of digital transformation that we experience in the world.

References:

make money – Careers – 15 Ways to Improve Your Career Prospects and Reach Work-Related Goals by Jacqueline Curtis

 McKinsey – What's your next career move?

MPL Corporate Software – Career