Managing your Car-eer in marketing

Happy New Year to one and all and welcome to my first Nugget of 2024.

Over the festive period I chewed over several ideas regarding the content of the new year’s kick-starter; “New Year-New Job” – vomit-worthy cliche; “New Year – new me” – felt somewhat hypocritical; “What lies ahead in 2024?” – more predictably inane predictions! At the same time, my mind was quite intensely occupied with buying and selling a car. And suddenly, an epiphany born from too little sleep; too much Penfolds; and undoubtedly an overly indexed love of puns: The Car-eer (ta-da).

The more I thought about it, the more perfect the metaphor became…your career is much like owning and driving a car. Now I do realise that not everybody reading this will be as car obsessed as I am but bear with me. Most of us own one or at least drive one, so stick with me. For the other 1.73% of readers, you are free to leave.

Like a car, your career is a sophisticated entity that needs careful management and care. The car’s purpose is to get you from A to B, navigating whatever terrain may exist between them. Your career, likewise, needs to move you through the labyrinth of work choices that will deliver your life goals.

The foundation of any successful career is akin to a sturdy chassis – a solid educational background and a strong set of skills. This forms the framework upon which the rest of the career is built. Just as a well-constructed chassis provides stability to a car, a robust foundation sets the tone for professional stability and growth. Education and skills act as the wheels that propel the career forward, enabling it to move efficiently and overcome obstacles. And just like the chassis of the car, regular inspection, maintenance and even upgrades are essential.

Just as a car needs fuel to function, so does a career. Passion, motivation and enthusiasm are what fuel a career. Without the right fuel or energy, the journey may feel tedious and uninspiring – it may even come to an unexpected end...just ask anyone who has ever put diesel in an unleaded tank!

The road ahead is not always straight; it often presents curves, hills, and unexpected detours. Similarly, a career is marked by uncertainties, changes, with both unforeseen challenges and opportunities. Adaptability is the suspension system of the career vehicle, absorbing shocks and ensuring a smooth ride. Those who can navigate through unexpected twists and turns with flexibility and an open mind are better equipped to reach their professional destination. Sometimes we need help from people who know better than we do: locals giving directions; mechanics fixing things that break.

Networking and building professional relationships are equivalent to the navigation system of a car. Just as GPS guides a driver through unfamiliar territory, a strong professional network provides guidance and support in the career journey. Networking opens up new opportunities, helps in navigating career choices, and provides valuable insights from those who have traveled similar paths. Building a strong network is like having a reliable navigation system that assists in making informed decisions.

There is so much I could add at this point about the accelerator and the brake. All of one and none of the other is a guaranteed disaster. Age can play a big role here. When we are young, we want everything now. We want fast progression. We feel we are invincible. But guess what? Speeding comes at a cost. Just as doing 100km/h in a 50km/h zone can have devastating consequences, so can rushing ahead in your career. Sure, take lucky breaks when they present themselves but do not be in a hurry to run before you can walk. Equally bear in mind your career is only a part of your life. Sometimes you may have to slow right down to accommodate other more important aspects, to make sure your destination and pathway remain sustainable.

Along with the basics: chassis, suspension, wheels, tyres, engine, fuel, brakes and accelerator; at every driver’s disposal is a vast array of features and accessories. How might they fit into this Car-eer metaphor:

Steering wheel – never forget who is driving…YOU. YOU have the ultimate responsibility.

Horn – if something doesn’t look or feel right…speak up!

Indicators – make it clear to those around you in which direction you want to be moving

Mirrors – it’s not just what is ahead that is important. You will be measured on what you leave behind. Make sure it is reflecting what you want it to reflect.

Bodywork – everybody knows a good-looking car goes better than a rust bucket, right? Not always the case but perception is everything. You need to be seen to be doing a good job as much as actually doing it.

Screen wash and wipers – make sure you have a clear view of what lies ahead. Don’t risk ambiguity.

Passenger seats – in order to reach your destination you may need to take others on the journey. Are they comfortable? Do they feel safe? Do they trust you as the driver?

Instrument cluster – be constantly aware of your surroundings and the state of your career. Act on warning signs quickly and if you are not sure what something means, ask someone who does.

Multi-media hub – it’s not just there for information. It’s entertainment too. Are we having fun yet? Is this journey enjoyable? If not, maybe we are on the wrong road or in the wrong car. Or someone switched the radio to a country and western station!

In conclusion, a career, like a well-driven car, is a journey filled with diverse experiences, challenges, and opportunities. It requires a skilled driver with a clear sense of direction, a reliable engine fueled by passion, and a well-maintained chassis built on a strong foundation of education and skills. Adaptability, networking, and continuous learning act as the navigation system, guiding the career through twists and turns. The accelerator and brakes influence the pace. Just as a well-maintained car reaches its destination smoothly, a thoughtfully navigated career leads to professional success and personal fulfillment.

Footnote – I just know that there will be many more aspects to this metaphor that I have not included. PLEASE put them in the comments below to demonstrate your creative flair and sense of humour and to entertain the rest of us.

Other nuggets from around the traps this month include:

The most in-demand skills now - and beyond? The World Economic Forum

Neuroscience Says This Simple Food Boosts Your Brain and Improves Memory? Inc. Australia

Checking your why when making career decisions? Marketing Mag

Want to Instantly Become a Better Leader? Science Says Meetings That Don’t Start on Time Are a Third Less Effective? Inc Australia

How AI will change the global labor market (but not how you think)? Fast Company

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As ever, here is a link to the Resources page on the Hire Aspirations website where I have gathered together some of the most lauded books, podcasts and courses to help you become the best possible marketer you can be.

And of course – if you want to chat about your own career management or a piece of recruitment you might need some support on:

Until next time, keep aiming higher and being better,

Andy