You have a passion for information architecture (IA) and you want to advance your career in this field. But what if your boss doesn't seem to care about your goals, skills, or interests? How do you communicate your aspirations and get the support you need to grow as an IA professional? Here are some tips to help you deal with this frustrating situation.
Before you approach your boss, take some time to evaluate your current role, responsibilities, and performance. Are you meeting or exceeding your expectations? Are you getting feedback and recognition for your work? Are you learning new skills and applying them to your projects? Are you aligned with the vision and strategy of your team and organization? If you can answer yes to most of these questions, you have a strong case to discuss your career aspirations with your boss. If not, you may need to work on improving your value and credibility first.
This can happen in both large and small businesses. When your boss isn't hearing your career aspirations, take proactive steps. Schedule a meeting, and prepare examples that align your goals with the company's vision. Listen actively, and propose solutions benefiting both you and the organization. Follow up and seek feedback. Use appraisal dates to showcase progress. Align with company goals to stand out. Aim for excellence, asking, Is this a world-class job that I just did or doing? This mindset would really help anyone
Addressing career aspirations with your boss can be challenging. Leaders may worry about you outgrowing your role. To overcome this, clarify your responsibilities from the start and highlight achievements in one-on-one meetings. Show how your growth benefits both you and the team. However, not all bosses prioritize employee development. Regularly showcase your work and outline needed resources for career advancement.
Once you have a clear picture of your situation, you need to prepare your pitch. This is not a formal presentation, but a concise and compelling statement of your career aspirations, why they matter to you, and how they benefit your boss, team, and organization. You should also include some specific examples of your achievements, skills, and interests in IA, as well as some realistic and actionable steps you want to take to advance your career. For example, you could ask for more opportunities to lead or participate in IA-related projects, attend training or events, or mentor or coach others.
The next step is to schedule a meeting with your boss to discuss your pitch. Don't wait for a performance review or a casual conversation to bring it up. Instead, request a dedicated time and place to have a serious and respectful discussion. Explain the purpose and agenda of the meeting in advance, and show up prepared and confident. During the meeting, be respectful, assertive, and constructive. Avoid complaining, blaming, or demanding. Focus on your strengths, goals, and value, and listen to your boss's perspective, feedback, and suggestions.
After the meeting, don't just sit back and hope for the best. Follow up with your boss and thank them for their time and attention. Reiterate your main points and action steps, and ask for their confirmation and support. Then, follow through on your commitments and show your progress and results. Keep your boss updated and informed, and seek their guidance and feedback along the way. Demonstrate your initiative, enthusiasm, and professionalism, and prove that you are serious and capable of achieving your career aspirations.
If you have done everything you can to communicate your career aspirations to your boss, but they still don't seem to listen, care, or help, you may need to seek alternatives. This doesn't mean you have to quit your job or give up on your goals. It means you have to look for other ways to pursue your passion and growth in IA. For example, you could network with other IA professionals, join online communities or groups, take online courses or certifications, or volunteer for IA-related causes or projects. You could also explore other opportunities within or outside your organization that match your aspirations and skills.
Sometimes sector culture affects your career prospects. Years ago, when I worked in print, it was usual for people to seek promotion by moving to a higher position in another firm, and then returning to the original company in a more senior role. Whether this is still true or not, understanding the culture and taking control of your career progression, rather than waiting to be appreciated , is the most positive way to advance your career.