As we quickly approach the New Year, I’m sure many of us have established resolutions – whether it be a more nutritious diet, exercising regularly, or being kinder to our wallets. However, let’s not forget this is also an opportunity for each of us to take better care of ourselves and ensure that the dreaded trip to the dentist doesn’t become a reality; after all who wants another lecture about proper brushing techniques? This year, we should not forget our careers and the steps that can help us to reach new heights. Thomas Moran, CEO of Addison Group which specializes in professional staffing and search services, provided Levo with his top tips for career improvement.

ABN (Always Be Networking!)

Even if you are content in your current role, it is always beneficial to build new relationships and research potential openings. You never know what the future has in store for you!

Invest in Your Growth; Continue To Educate Yourself

Never stop your education. Moran says, “There are plenty of training programs and professional classes that are available to help career-driven individuals expand their knowledge. Take a class that will help add a skill to your resume or a management class that can boost your education section.”

Find a Mentor

If you don’t have a Levo in your office already, look no further – find one here!

Be Open

Don’t shy away from new prospects, even if they may not seem to align with your expectations. Moran says, “If a recruiter or friend reaches out about a potential opportunity, don’t immediately brush it off. Do some research on the company or project and remember that just because it’s easier and more comfortable to stay at your current position, it isn’t always safer.”
Embracing a mindset of continuous growth and adaptability is a crucial work resolution.

Set Goals

Capture your goals in writing. Share them with a trusted friend or mentor. Visualize the outcome you desire to manifest in reality.“If you’re looking to obtain a new job or switch careers entirely, outline concrete steps that can facilitate the move and commit to completing one step every month,” says Moran.

Here are some additional Levo resolutions to build on and remember:

You Deserve It

Don’t hesitate any longer. Results from a Citi/ LinkedIn poll of 1,000 female professionals revealed that “not getting paid enough” is one of their greatest workplace concerns – yet only 25% asked for a salary raise in 2013. This year, let’s make an effort to alter this statistic!

Be a Show-Off

Claim credit for the work you do when it is yours – don’t shy away from acknowledging your hard work and dedication. After spending countless hours on a project or task, be proud of what you have achieved and make sure others know about it too! When the time comes to ask for that promotion, people will remember all of your efforts if they are aware of them in advance.
Embracing this career resolution ensures that your contributions are recognized, setting the stage for a successful and rewarding professional journey in the coming year.

Don’t Say You Are Sorry

“By taking responsibility for things that aren’t your fault, you denigrate your self-esteem,” Linda Sapadin, Ph.D., author of Master Your Fears: How to Triumph over Your Worries and Get on with Your Life, tells Fitness Magazine. So how do we break this cycle?

  • Self-monitor the number of times you apologize. Analyze in what scenarios, how frequently, and why it is being used. Is there an incident deserving of a genuine apology, or are you overreacting when someone bumps into your foot? By incorporating mindful practices into your professional behavior, you can align your actions with impactful work New Year’s resolutions.
  • Don’t use your “I’m sorry” for insignificant missteps, like when you forget to add extra sugar to someone’s coffee. Reserve it instead for moments of genuine need, since an apology that is overused and devalued can no longer provide comfort or support during a difficult time.
  • Replace your apologetic “sorry” with a more constructive phrase. Though we are all taught to be courteous, too many apologies at work can harm our image and how others view us. Instead of saying sorry if you’re running late for an event or meeting, use something like “Thank you so much for being patient – I appreciate it”. That way, not only are you still exhibiting politeness but also expressing gratitude rather than contrition.

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