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Jump start
Putting your name forward for things that are not part of your job description is perceived by many as a step too far, as is engaging in extracurricular activities.
However, just a little bit of effort can really make a difference in improving your career prospects. Taking a real interest in what you do shows your employer that you enjoy your job. It also looks good on your CV and will help to differentiate you from others when the time comes to make your next career move.
Attending industry conferences, meetings and events and training courses run by recognised bodies will allow you to keep abreast of the latest industry developments. It will also offer you the opportunity to widen your network of contacts, so do not shy away from the mingling opportunities over coffee and lunch. All contacts should be viewed as a potential opportunity and the most unexpected of these might help open a significant door for you in the future.
If you are feeling proactive, here are a few activities that will help jump start your career:
1. Join an industry body
2. Get yourself on to an industry committee, but start small and only take on the duties you feel you will perform well
3. Write for industry publications, especially if you are working on an interesting or innovative project that could be attractive to magazines and journals
4. Present a paper at an industry conference (this could be linked to the article you've written for an industry publication or just be on one of your successful projects)
5. Run a workshop (or maybe help to run one initially)
6. Join in debates at meetings and in blogs
7. Complete an industry postgraduate diploma or degree such as CIM, MBA.
Getting involved in such initiatives will really help to broaden your skills and experience and show your commitment to your industry and career. Taking on extracurricular activities does ensure that you stand out from the crowd. It is good for you, it pleases your current employer and it will certainly impress any prospective employers as well.
And finally, update your CV and tell people about your achievements; if you don't tell them, no one else will.
The Author:
Debbie Anderson is Founding Director, Carrot Pharma Recruitment
