You are the Captain of your own career, choosing a destination, planning your journey, and controlling the pace. Just as a pilot completes a meticulous preflight checklist, executes a controlled take-off, and pilots the aircraft to the final destination, you need to do the same in your career. Your education and life experiences have made you capable of flying higher, now it’s time to prepare for that flight of a lifetime!
Flight plan: Every pilot must research and prepare a flight plan for a new destination. As the pilot of your career, you must identify and set your goal, and lay out the steps needed to get you from where you are now to where you want to be. Target organizations with openings that fit your skills and goals.
Pre-flight check: Check that your aircraft is in good working order. Do you have an interesting cover letter, a compelling resume, a good suit, and are you prepared for interviews?
Take-off: Pilots must ready for take off, be aware of questions and instructions directed to them, and keep an eye on the traffic nearby. Arrive on time and prepared for interviews, work to stand out, show clearly what you offer the organization or team you aspire to join.
Flight: Once in the air, pilots continue to follow Air Traffic Control instructions, and using beacons and instrument feedback, begin their journey to the ultimate destination. Once you have the job offer, use whatever tools you have to excel at your new position. Mentors, communication skills, and opportunities to learn and grow will come your way, take advantage of them. Stay prepared with an updated resume, strong personal branding, a wide network of contacts, and social media presence. Pilot your career from one landmark to the next to reach your final goal.
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