10 Steps Towards Career Development Without the Politics - Introvert Whisperer

Introvert Whisperer / 10 Steps Towards Career Development Without the Politics - Introvert Whisperer 10 Steps Towards Career Development Without the Politics The desire for career development and advancement is perfectly normal. We all want to  live a better lifestyle  and career development could be the key. People naturally want to learn, grow, and progress. Unfortunately, in todays market career advancement opportunities often arise as an outcome of office politics rather than true merit. While you cant completely ignore the politics of your organization, there are steps you can take to advance your career without getting too involved. Here are a few top recommendations: 1. Request Feedback Feedback is a great tool for learning the needs of an organization. It is also an opportunity to connect with your manager who might ultimately make decisions about your next career move. Youll have the opportunity to gain insight on both yourself and the future of the organization without feeling manipulative or political. 2. Ignore the Negatives Office politics often involve bad mouthing or belittling. Many people who feel threatened by a co-worker will intentionally try to sabotage any relationship or advancement. Instead of getting involved in this bullying battle, let your work do the talking and avoid making criticisms of others. 3. Give Credit People thrive on  recognition and feedback. One of the best things you can do to gain an upper hand without manipulating others is to offer credit where credit is due. If someone on your team does a great job, make sure you publicly (and privately) acknowledge this work. If your team feels supported, theyre much more likely to be a cheerleader for you as you pursue your next move. 4. Act as a Team Player Another way to earn recognition at work without engaging in politics is to lend a helping hand in times of need. If you always step up to help in difficult situations youll be viewed as a team player and a creative thinker. Youll receive positive attention and will be remembered when it comes time to promote. 5. Identify a Mentor Mentorship is another great route for career advancement. Finding a mentor outside of work allows you to network with people that can help you make new connections. This strategy helps you avoid the politics of the office while still working towards your long-term goals. Youll also be able to gain insight from another industry that might help in your current situation. 6. Research the Industry No matter what your role, you play a key part in the companys success. Gaining a working knowledge of the industrys trends and challenges is always a great idea as you navigate your career. This research will allow you to make connections and speak eloquently with executive leadership. If you are able to demonstrate youre understanding of the industry and are able to solve a problem for the company, youre more than likely going to have a seat at the table when it comes time for a promotion. 7. Seek Training Opportunities Continuing education is another great way to advance your career. Whether this comes in the form of an informal training, graduate school, or obtaining a certification, adding credentials to your resume is always a great way to prove your commitment and your willingness to learn and grow. This shows initiative and demonstrates that youre not expecting a free ride up the ladder. 8. Socialize with Other Departments This move will avoid the office drama and will also allow you to gain new perspectives. Most employees get so bogged down with their own work that they fail to understand the contributions of other departments. Taking the time to socialize with other departments will not only allow you to get a 360 view of the company, but it might also uncover new interests that could open the door for your next career move.  Take the time to talk to people without manipulating them and you will see some great results. 9. Take Time to Volunteer Volunteering is another great way to network and make new connections. Some employers even make new hires based on their volunteer work. Youll experience how non-profits operate and will demonstrate your good and giving nature. Youll be able to add this experience to your resume and youll make lots of new connections along the way. 10. Share Your Successes While it may seem political to brag about your successes, it can be a major mistake not to share your work with your manager. If they have no idea what youre doing, then you definitely wont be in the mix when it comes to promotions. Consider forwarding any complimentary emails you receive, or sharing a portfolio of your work each quarter. This ensures youll be at the forefront of their mind and will demonstrate initiative and organization. These are just a few of the many ways you can work on career development without engaging in too much obvious politicking. While its impossible not to engage in some office politics, youll want to focus your energy internally. Do your best to learn and grow in ways that will help you make moves. The leaders of your organization will take notice of your intrinsic motivation and may just add you to the mix for the next advancement opportunity. Authors Bio: Rebecca is an author, entrepreneur and  most of all a wife and mother of 2. What she enjoys the most is helping normal people reach their full potential. Rebecca uses her ever growing skills in writing to inspire people and not settle for a normal life. As an entrepreneur, she has no shortage of failures and that is why Rebecca is the ideal person to talk about this. http://www.selfdevelopmentsecrets.com Go to top OFFICE POLITICS Power-Influence-Office Politics: it comes down to your Strategic Relationships and understanding of how you build each one of these elements. I want to help you accelerate your career by connecting you with your Free Instant Access to my video that outlines all of this and meaningful actions you can take today!  Start watching now by clicking here! Brought to you by Dorothy Tannahill-Moran â€" dedicated to unleashing your professional potential. Introvert Whisperer