In a Slump at Work? Try This.

Key Concepts:

• Career stagnation
• Motivation at work
• Performance vs. Progression
• Self-advocacy
• Visibility
• Skill development
• Career growth

Reigniting Momentum: Five Small Shifts

The core issue addressed is the feeling of stagnation at work, where an individual is performing well but not progressing in their career. Octavia Goredememer, career coach and author, presents five actionable shifts to reignite momentum without requiring drastic changes.

1. Revisit Past Performance Reviews:

• Key Point: Your last performance review contains valuable insights into your strengths and areas for improvement that may have been overlooked.
• Specific Details: The review document can serve as a "road map" highlighting previously discussed next steps that were never acted upon.
• Actionable Insight: Actively review past performance reviews to identify concrete actions that can be taken to address previously identified areas for growth.

2. Seek Challenging Projects:

• Key Point: Taking on projects that challenge you and align with leadership priorities can boost both your skills and your visibility within the organization.
• Rationale: Challenging projects provide opportunities to develop new skills and demonstrate your capabilities to key decision-makers.
• Benefit: Increased visibility can lead to greater recognition and opportunities for advancement.

3. Observe Others' Problem-Solving:

• Key Point: Observing how others approach and solve problems can break you out of autopilot and reveal new ways to grow.
• Methodology: This can be done remotely or in person, allowing for flexibility in learning.
• Benefit: Exposure to different problem-solving techniques can lead to new insights and improved performance.

4. Explain Your Path to Others:

• Key Point: Articulating your career path to someone else can help you clarify your goals and identify what is most important to you.
• Rationale: The act of explaining your journey forces you to reflect on your experiences and priorities.
• Benefit: This self-reflection can lead to a renewed sense of purpose and direction.

5. Document Accomplishments:

• Key Point: Writing down three accomplishments at the end of each week, regardless of their size, builds a record of your growth and makes it easier to advocate for yourself.
• Methodology: A simple practice of noting down accomplishments weekly.
• Benefit: This record provides concrete evidence of your contributions and makes it easier to demonstrate your value when seeking promotions or other opportunities.
• Self-Advocacy: This record serves as a powerful tool for self-advocacy during performance reviews or promotion discussions.

Conclusion:

The five small shifts presented offer a practical approach to overcoming career stagnation and reigniting momentum at work. By revisiting past reviews, seeking challenging projects, observing others, explaining your path, and documenting accomplishments, individuals can proactively take control of their career growth and increase their visibility within the organization. The emphasis is on small, consistent actions that, over time, can lead to significant progress.