What do you do if your program coordination career is stagnating due to a lack of strategic thinking?

1 Assess Skills

Start by conducting a thorough self-assessment to pinpoint areas for improvement. Reflect on past projects and identify moments where strategic thinking could have altered the outcome. Be honest with yourself about your strengths and weaknesses. Consider seeking feedback from colleagues or mentors who can provide an outside perspective on your strategic capabilities. This initial step is vital as it lays the groundwork for targeted personal development and sets a clear direction for growth.

2 Seek Training

After identifying skill gaps, actively seek out training opportunities. Many organizations offer workshops, seminars, or courses in strategic planning and critical thinking. Alternatively, online platforms provide a plethora of resources tailored to enhance strategic thinking abilities. Engaging with these educational tools not only broadens your knowledge but also demonstrates a commitment to professional development, which can be appealing to current or future employers.

3 Expand Network

Expanding your professional network is another key strategy. Connect with individuals who are known for their strategic acumen. Networking events, industry conferences, and even online forums can be valuable avenues for meeting such professionals. Engaging in meaningful conversations with these individuals can provide insights into their thought processes and decision-making strategies. You might also find a mentor who can guide you through the complexities of strategic program coordination.

4 Apply Concepts

Take the strategic concepts you've learned and apply them to your current role. Start by re-evaluating ongoing projects through a strategic lens. Ask yourself how each task aligns with the organization's long-term objectives and what the potential impacts of your decisions could be. Implementing strategic thinking in your daily work will not only improve project outcomes but also showcase your growing expertise to supervisors and colleagues.

5 Reflect Regularly

Make reflection a regular part of your routine. After implementing strategic decisions, take the time to review their outcomes. What worked well? What didn't? How could your approach be improved? Reflecting on these questions will help you refine your strategic thinking skills over time. It's a continuous cycle of learning and improvement that keeps your career moving forward.

6 Innovate Often

Lastly, don't be afraid to innovate in your role. Strategic thinking often involves challenging the status quo and introducing new ideas. If you see an opportunity for improvement within your program or organization, develop a plan and pitch it to your superiors. Innovation is a clear sign of strategic thinking and can significantly boost your career prospects by setting you apart as a forward-thinking coordinator.

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?