Crafting your Career

I’m part of a pilot group that is helping LinkedIn to launch article series. I’ll be discussing how Students can leverage LinkedIn, so subscribe to my series to be notified of new articles and join the conversation.

?This week, I’ll be talking about how to craft your path from campus to career.

Create an individual development plan that will capture how you will develop through the four building blocks of career development: experiences, exposure, education and environment.

Show and tell your authentic story

Promote your personal brand. A personal brand is your calling card - a short hand explanation of how you stand out from the crowd. What do people think about when they hear your name?

When you identify and project a distinctive set of skills and strengths, you're cultivating your personal brand. It's that easy.

Update your LinkedIn network whenever a project or course is completed to boost your chances of getting noticed when opportunities arise. Make it easy for recruiters and connections to 'find great talent' when there are job openings, development opportunities and special projects.

Build your network

There are great opportunities to participate in programs, expand your network and get experience that you may not be able to do/get in your current situation.

Establish supportive relationships within and outside your school/community/comfort zone.

If you can expose yourself to new people, you can expose yourself to new thinking, which can lift you higher.

Find a mentor or be a mentor

Having a mentor who can coach, counsel and cheer you on is a great way to grow personally and professionally.

Becoming a mentor is a great way to grow too - you are never too young.

(Use the LinkedIn Alumni tool, to reach out to alumni!)

Challenge yourself to take on something new

Raise your hand to take on new things!

Volunteer for an opportunity/project outside of your usual routine and really own the experience. Learn how to find new opportunities. Don't wait for them.

Build relationships and spend time with other people who are knowledgeable in a particular area so they can help you grow. Leverage the connections you have on LinkedIn.

Know Yourself (Be self aware)

To develop a fulfilling career, be attuned to your core interests and work values, be savvy about the skills you bring to the table, and look for organizations that are a good culture add.

When you are self-aware, you can ask for the opportunities, support and the reward you need.

Personal/Professional advancement today depends on your willingness to question old approaches to your work/lifestyle and your ability to learn new ones.

Look to satisfy your core interests first - these are things that draw your attention, curiosity and concern. Align your skills, values and interests with your career.

If you can handle tough times with a positive and growth mindset, you can make big moves.

You are the best advocate for your own interests. Take ownership and responsibility for your career development.

In what ways have you crafted your career?

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