What's on My Mind: Navigating Career Success: Curiosity, Adaptability, and Collaboration

This month, WIFA participated in 法国兴业银行 ’s Career Week as a panelist, alongside John Blakeley , Ciprian Ile , Binna Kim , and Raffat Raza . The event focused on career growth, mobility, and work-life balance.

The Three Pillars of Career Success

1. Curiosity: The Engine of Career Growth - Curiosity is the driving force behind career growth. By consistently asking questions, exploring new opportunities, and seeking feedback, we pave the way for continual learning. Staying curious enables us to adapt to industry changes and embrace new challenges, keeping us engaged and ready to seize new opportunities.
2. Adaptability: Navigating Career Transitions - Adaptability is crucial when considering transitions in your career, including relocations, internal moves, and shifts to new roles. When evaluating a potential change, it’s essential to make a conscious decision. Assess how each move aligns with your personal and professional goals rather than jumping at every opportunity.
3. Collaboration: Building Your Support Network - A collaborative approach fosters strong networks of mentors, peers, and colleagues. These relationships are invaluable for providing guidance, advice, and support throughout your career. Investing in these relationships enhances your learning and supports mutual success.

Internal Mobility: Seizing Opportunities

1. Start the Conversation: Discuss career aspirations with your manager or HR.
2. Research: Understand the team or function you’re interested in.
3. Evaluate Fit: Align your skills with the new role and identify new skills to develop.
4. Skill Development: Use internal moves to broaden expertise and prepare for future opportunities.

Balancing Work and Life for New Mothers

A particularly poignant moment from the Q&A session was when a new mother asked for advice on balancing her professional and personal life. The panelists collectively emphasised that self-care is essential. Adjusting to the new rhythm of life is a significant change, and taking care of oneself is crucial to being able to care for others and succeed in your career.

Career Moves: The Value of Horizontal Shifts

The discussion also touched upon the importance of career evaluation and the value of horizontal moves. While upward promotions are often the focus, lateral moves can provide diverse experiences, broaden your skillset, and prepare you for leadership roles.

Keep the Conversation Going

Key takeaways include making conscious career decisions, building networks, and staying open to opportunities. WIFA supports your career journey and welcomes your insights on mobility, career moves, and work-life balance. Let’s continue to inspire one another!

Bonnie So