What do you do if you want to advance your career in business management?

1 Assess your strengths and weaknesses

The first step to improve your performance and prospects as a business manager is to identify your areas of expertise and development. You can use various tools and methods, such as feedback surveys, self-assessments, performance reviews, or career coaches, to evaluate your strengths and weaknesses. This will help you set realistic and specific goals, identify your gaps, and plan your actions accordingly.

2 Pursue continuing education

One of the best ways to enhance your skills and knowledge as a business manager is to pursue continuing education opportunities, such as online courses, certifications, workshops, or degrees. Continuing education can help you keep up with the latest trends, best practices, and innovations in your field, as well as expand your network and credentials. You can choose from a variety of topics and formats, depending on your interests, needs, and availability.

3 Seek mentorship and feedback

Another effective strategy to advance your career in business management is to seek mentorship and feedback from experienced and successful managers. Mentors can offer you valuable advice, guidance, and support, as well as connect you with relevant opportunities and resources. Feedback can help you improve your performance, learn from your mistakes, and celebrate your achievements. You can find mentors and feedback sources within your organization, industry, or professional associations.

4 Take on new challenges and responsibilities

If you want to grow as a business manager, you need to challenge yourself and take on new responsibilities that showcase your abilities and potential. You can volunteer for projects, tasks, or roles that require you to apply or develop new skills, solve problems, or lead teams. This will help you demonstrate your initiative, creativity, and leadership, as well as gain more visibility and recognition.

5 Build and maintain a strong network

Networking is essential for any business manager who wants to advance their career. Networking can help you access information, opportunities, and referrals that can boost your professional development. You can build and maintain a strong network by attending events, joining groups, reaching out to contacts, or sharing your insights and expertise. You should also nurture your relationships with your colleagues, managers, clients, and partners, as they can influence your reputation and prospects.

6 Update your resume and online profile

Finally, if you want to advance your career in business management, you need to update your resume and online profile regularly. Your resume and online profile are your marketing tools that showcase your skills, achievements, and value proposition to potential employers. You should make sure they are clear, concise, and relevant, as well as highlight your continuing education, mentorship, feedback, challenges, and network.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?