Career Management � A Crucial Need

Managing one’s career is an unending pursuit that needs to encompass personal and professional goals in a balanced manner in alignment to business needs. This involves self-awareness, career exploration, development and planning. Essentially, it is a life-long journey of learning, and networking.

Knowing oneself thoroughly : As one embarks on their journey of self-awareness, it is essential that they discover their interests, skills, personality traits, special assets, and abilities. They must know who could benefit from their abilities and talents; what kind of work environment most appeals to them; what activities they enjoy and find motivating; is there any scope for upgrading their skills; and, then most importantly, ask their near and dear ones whether to gauge them to get true feedback, and score themselves realistically.

Career planning : It is a process that encourages one to have clarity over their career goals, and accordingly focus on strengthening skills and know-how for their current position and future opportunities. Once the goals are sorted, they must be written down and discussed with one’s manager to plan strategies to achieve them. A concrete plan will provide direction and motivation to keep at it.

Learning is forever : Technology can be a boon if used wisely and effectively. Computers and smart phones have impacted the work and the way work is done, giving way to further innovations and advancements. This must be leveraged to keep learning more of one’s field and, enhance skills and knowledge. Taking up credentialed coursework, certification programs (related to career/interest), joining cutting edge projects/committees/task forces, attending conferences, or simply staying current in professional reading, are some ways.

Building good relationships : As we have moved to an information, service and technological-oriented economy, our networking relationships have become essential assets. Understand that keeping connected and knowing how to build value-enhancing relationships is more important than ever before. These skills must be developed through applied communication courses, contact management software, effective listening and an authentic desire to know more about people.

Philosophy for career development : Career development happens when the employee, his manager, and the company are in perfect alignment with regard to their goals and the means to achieve them. Companies encourage people to develop in ways that link to the strategic objectives of the company.

People are responsible for proactively managing their careers, increasing their skills, experience, and maintaining a high level of performance. Leaders should take charge for actively encouraging and supporting teams in their career planning, using available resources, tools, and processes to help people use their abilities to meet the needs of the organization. The company must take responsibility for creating a conducive atmosphere and providing opportunities for all to grow.

T K RAMESH
Managing Director and CEO
Micromatic Machine Tools Pvt Ltd

Career planning is a process that encourages one to have clarity over their career goals, and accordingly focus on strengthening skills and know-how for their current position and future opportunities.