By Annette DiZinno, Workforce Connection Center Consultant, Goodwill Industries of Southeastern Wisconsin
Sometimes getting the job is the easy part of employment — keeping it can be a whole other ballgame.
Staying in a job for long periods of time builds credibility, stability and experience, and puts you in a more favorable position should you wish to pursue new opportunities down the road. Right or wrong, recruiters and hiring managers view steady employment as an indication of a candidate’s work ethic and ability. That’s why keeping a job is such an important and overlooked part of developing your career.
So, set yourself up for success. Once you’ve landed your new gig, here are a few tips for keeping it long-term.
Keep a Positive Attitude
No matter what your job is or what industry you work in, attitude is everything. Being aware of your attitude – and how it affects the people around you – is an important skill to have. It shows you’re engaged and ready for the long haul.
Conduct Yourself Professionally
Behaving professionally doesn’t have to mean being boring. Rather, it should mean you exhibit an air of courtesy, respect and confidence. How you communicate, both verbally and non-verbally, should reflect that.
Be a Team Player
There is hardly a job today that doesn’t involve working within a team setting. Small or large, effective teams play to each member’s strengths and expertise to accomplish a shared goal. Good communication, follow-through and support are how you build trust and strengthen work relationships with your colleagues.
Offer to Help Out
Raising your hand — putting yourself out there — can seem daunting. But taking on new projects and challenges shows initiative, confidence and a desire to grow. Not only will this help you stay challenged and engaged in your current role, it will demonstrate that you’re able to grow within your organization.
Never Stop Learning
Continuous professional improvement can come in many forms. While traditional schooling — taking college courses, earning professional certifications and accruing continuing education credits — is valuable, it’s not your only source of learning. Every interaction in your day affords you the opportunity to learn. Reading a trade journal, talking to a colleague in a different department, or just taking the time to observe your surroundings can be valuable sources of information.
Get More at Goodwill
During this time of social distancing, many local Goodwill organizations are providing online training, live virtual classes, and virtual career development services by phone or video conference, all at no cost to you. To learn about the career services available in your area, visit the Goodwill Locator. Click the Filter option and select Headquarters only. Then, enter your ZIP or Postal code and click the magnifying glass or hit Enter to find your local Goodwill’s website, social media channels or phone number for localized information.
Reposted with permission from Goodwill Industries of Southeastern Wisconsin.
