by Adele Gregory

Created on: June 27, 2008

It might sound like a glib catchphrase on the office wall but I think the best advice for keeping your career healthy and growing really is to "stay involved". Practically speaking it helps you keep your finger on the pulse, know what opportunities are out there and network. On a personal level it provides you with additional stimulation and support. Some of the ways to stay involved are:

1. Keep up with trends and new developments
Few industries remain static. It might be a change in the market, new product or technology or simply a different take on old practices but there will usually be some development on the horizon. One of the best places to track changes in your industry (and the opportunities that go with them) is through professional journals, websites and relevant sections of the newspaper. Watch what's happening with your organization's competitors, it may spread to your company. The recruitment section/ want ads of your local paper can also say a lot about which companies are expanding and how, or who seems to have a high turnover.

2. Meet peers from other organizations
Conferences and other professional gatherings are excellent places to network but they can also provide you with different perspectives, new ideas and support when your creativity and motivation need a boost.

3. Let people know what you'd like and what interests you
Ask to be considered for new duties or positions. If people know ahead of time about what you want, you're more likely to be approached if something comes up.

4. Review your personal priorities and interests from time to time
Early on in your career your choices for progress and promotion may be limited by what's available and a need to establish yourself. As time goes on, however, there may be more useful and fulfilling directions to consider than simply the next rung up. Don't discount a sideways move which might play more directly to your strengths and interests. It can result in more sustained growth than a accepting a promotion where you won't thrive.

5. Familiarize yourself with your company's resources and programmes.
Some companies offer day release programs for relevant study. Others might have in-house libraries or learning centres where you can read through books or take short computer-based courses. Large organizations often have a company newsletter you can submit articles to, workers' focus groups or volunteer programmes for staff to share skills with community projects.

6. Propose and negotiate
Well-thought through suggestions and proposals can demonstrate your initiative and commitment. They can also be a way of creating new opportunities for yourself, but make sure that you've done your homework and can present a clear picture of how things will work in practice. If an opportunity arises that you can't take up as it stands, let them know what you are able to do. More may be negotiable than you think.

A healthy, growing career can depend as much on your relationship with your work as your job title and training. By staying alert, involved and informed, you won't only notice more opportunities for progress, you can also steer some and feel more fulfilled in the process.

Learn more about this author, Adele Gregory.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.