Shattering the Glass Ceiling: Advancing your Career in the Marketplace
"Success is not measured by what you accomplish, but by the opposition you have encountered, and the courage with which you have maintained the struggle against overwhelming odds." - Myles Munroe
Introduction:
Have you ever felt stuck in your career? New graduates often feel unsure or unprepared about how to choose or find the right jobs or career to pursue. Migrants have struggled to identify their existing skills to meet the selection criteria for jobs they want and often end up working in lower-level roles or lesser paying jobs so they can pay their bills. Mid-level and senior professionals sometimes feel they have reached a certain level, can see the top, but there appears to be an invisible barrier or glass ceiling that prevents them from attaining their next level, hence denied of self-actualization.
In this post, we will discuss some of the strategies that can be used to overcome these challenges. A full Video Webinar on this topic is also available.
Identifying and Leveraging Your Unique Skills
In order to break through the career glass ceiling, it is essential to first identify and leverage your unique skills. Take the time to reflect on your strengths, passions, and areas of expertise. What sets you apart from others in your field? Once you have identified these skills, it is important to find ways to showcase them in your work and job applications. Whether it's through taking on special projects or volunteering for leadership opportunities, leveraging your unique skills will help you stand out and advance in your career.
Another important aspect of leveraging your unique skills is understanding how they align with the needs of your industry or desired job. Conduct research to identify the specific skills that are in high demand and sought after by employers. By developing and demonstrating these skills, you will position yourself as a valuable asset and increase your chances of breaking through the glass ceiling. Create a list of your unique skills and this can be used to assess job descriptions.
Building a Strong Professional Network
Building a strong professional network is another key strategy for breaking through the career glass ceiling. Surrounding yourself with a supportive and influential network can help to open doors to new opportunities and help you overcome any invisible barriers in your career. Networking is a powerful strategy to help build one' confidence and to learn and understand more about an industry or workplace.
A good place to start is by attending industry events, conferences, and networking sessions. This allows you to connect with like-minded professionals who share your goals and aspirations. Join professional organizations and online communities to expand your network even further. The more people you get to know in your field, the more likely you are to come across new job openings, mentorship opportunities, and valuable connections.
Finally, the power of mentorship within your network should not be underestimated. A mentor can help to guide you in how to shape your career, provide guidance, advice, and support as you navigate your career journey. Some mentors help to connect you with other professionals that can bring a broader or deeper perspective to issues you face. Seek out professionals who have already shattered the glass ceiling and learn from their experiences.
Developing a Growth Mindset
Developing a growth mindset is crucial for overcoming the invisible barriers that may be holding you back in your career. A growth mindset is the belief that your abilities and intelligence can be developed through dedication and hard work. By adopting this mindset, you will be more resilient, open to learning, and willing to take on new challenges.
To develop a growth mindset, start by embracing failure as a learning opportunity rather than a setback. View challenges as opportunities for growth and development. Seek out feedback from colleagues, supervisors, and mentors to continuously improve. Cultivate a curiosity for learning and stay updated on industry trends and advancements. By approaching your career with a growth mindset, you will be better equipped to break through the glass ceiling and reach new heights of success.
Seeking Mentorship and Guidance
Seeking mentorship and guidance is a powerful strategy for overcoming the barriers to career advancement. A mentor can provide valuable insights, advice, and support as you navigate your career journey. They can help you identify opportunities, overcome obstacles, and provide guidance on how to shatter the glass ceiling.
When seeking a mentor, look for someone who has achieved the level of success you aspire to reach. Reach out to them and express your admiration for their accomplishments. Explain why you believe they would be a valuable mentor and how you hope to benefit from their guidance. Be proactive in seeking mentorship and take advantage of the wisdom and experience that a mentor can offer.
Taking Calculated Risks for Career Advancement
Having a mindset to do well can be difficult for some people. One of the biggest barriers to advancing in one's career can be fear: fear of responsibility; fear of failure; fear of success; fear of making mistakes, fear of leading people; fear of being judged, and so on. Some organisations or leaders do not build a success culture, and this can leave people feeling like taking the next step can be too daunting.
Taking calculated risks is an essential strategy for breaking through the career glass ceiling. Often, advancement opportunities require stepping outside of your comfort zone and taking on new challenges. While it can be intimidating, taking risks can lead to significant rewards and propel your career forward. In fact, even if it does not work out, the experience gained from trying in itself can be a great reward and can become a great learning experience that can better equip you for the next time you take a risk.
A good place to begin is to draft a plan. Start by identifying areas where you feel stagnant or limited in your current role. Then, assess the potential risks and benefits of pursuing new opportunities or roles. Consider whether the potential rewards outweigh the potential challenges or drawbacks. Taking calculated risks involves thoughtful planning and weighing the pros and cons before making a decision.
Remember, taking risks doesn't guarantee success, but it does provide valuable learning experiences and growth opportunities that can be invaluable in the long run. it is important to embrace the mindset of wanting to continuously improve and be willing to step outside of your comfort zone to gain the experience and skills you need to advance your career to the next level.
