7 career management tips from a recruitment specialist

As a recruitment agency, St-Amour helps numerous companies manage their personnel. As a head hunter, St-Amour knows what kind of employees companies are looking for. Today we propose a few tips for a successful career path.

1. Keep your CV up-to-date

With each new skill you acquire or project you complete, consider updating your CV and LinkedIn profile (if applicable). That way you’ll be ready to apply for any position that comes up and you’ll have a complete overview of what you have to offer. If you want to upgrade your resume to an even more professional level, you can hire a professional resume writer. He/she will help you make your CV more attractive and attract the attention of recruiters.

2. Know yourself

Remember: you control your career path, no matter how things might seem sometimes. Think about your areas of interest and natural strengths.

Ask yourself:

• What am I naturally good at, without effort?
  The tasks you excel in are not necessarily the most difficult ones. Look for a position that requires skills that you will enjoy.
• What are my values? What makes me happy in my everyday life?
  Having a job that makes you happy benefits both you and your employer.

If you have trouble answering these questions, speak to a colleague, or wait for your evaluation to discuss it with your supervisor. You might be surprised at their answers!

3. Develop your knowledge on an ongoing basis

Figure out what skills and abilities you need to get your ideal job. Make sure you set aside time for self-development, such as:

• Reading articles or blog posts on developments and trends in your sector
• Taking part in new projects
• Getting involved in a professional association

4. Define your career goals

Once you’ve defined your long-term career goal, the best way to meet it is to set goals for the short and medium term. For example, if you are a general representative and your long-term goal is to become sales manager:

• Short-term goals: gain experience at the head office by getting involved in a pilot project
• Medium-term goals: obtain a specialist representative or trainer position

Whatever your goals may be, remember to follow your instinct, stick with your interests, and maintain a healthy work-life balance. Keep track of your level of happiness at work on an ongoing basis and if it suffers, look for solutions with the help of your manager.

5. Look for role models, a coach or a mentor

Associate yourself with people who will guide you through each step and give you constructive and honest feedback. Your coach or mentor could be a leader or a colleague in your company or industry, but ideally this person should truly know you to guide you effectively.

6. Expand your network

Keeping your goals in mind, choose an appropriate network within your company or your industry, such as a special committee or a trade association. Networking is a very effective way to attract new development opportunities. Do not hesitate to help others whenever possible, to build win-win relationships.

7. Maintain a positive attitude

It’s up to you to create a positive perception of your work in the company. A good way to stay positive despite challenges is to focus your energy on things that you can change:

• What you can do to stay motivated
• How you can contribute more to the team
• Perhaps consider a lateral change in position (same level in a different team) to help you meet your goal

If you have a positive attitude, your employer will want to keep you on. Everyone knows that a motivated and happy employee is a productive employee.