Where are you in your career? Where do you want to go?

It’s not always clear how you should think about growing in your career. One thing to try is writing a “from-to” statement that articulates where you are today and where you want to go. For example: I want to progress from an individual contributor who adds value through technical expertise and closely follows others’ directions, to a people leader who creates a clear strategy and delivers results through a small team. To write a from-to, ask trusted superiors and colleagues for their candid view of your current role and your goals. Tell them to be brutally honest, because their transparency will help you figure out how you need to grow. Reflect on their answers and incorporate them into your from-to statement — and then have your colleagues read it. Sometimes people think they’re far ahead of where they are, or choose a destination that is unrealistic. Your advisers can provide a reality check.

(Adapted from “A Simple Way to Map Out Your Career Ambitions,” by Marc Effron.)

How to work with someone who bugs you

Sometimes you have to work with a colleague you don’t particularly like. They may not be toxic or difficult — they might just get on your nerves. To work with them productively, remind yourself that while you won’t get along with everyone, there is potential value in every interaction. Think about the other person’s point of view: Why do they do the things that annoy you? What might be motivating them? And how do you seem to them? It also helps to approach conversations with a problem-solving mindset: “I don’t feel like we are working together as effectively as we could. What do you think? Do you have any ideas for how we can work together better?” If that doesn’t work, try asking for their help: “You’ve been around here longer than I have. What should I be doing more or less of?” This can ease tensions and reboot a difficult relationship because it shows that you value the person’s experience.

(Adapted from “How to Collaborate With People You Don’t Like,” by Mark Nevins.)

Managers, be thoughtful about the weight your words carry

Bosses have a lot of influence on how employees spend their time. That’s why it’s so important for them to consider the ripple effects their input can have. Think of your comments, suggestions and questions as pebbles you’re throwing into a stream: Each one can have an impact far larger than you may intend. So always recognise the weight your words carry, and speak with intention. During meetings with your team, try not to “think out loud,” and avoid lobbing ideas at everyone. Be sure you’re giving the team a clear, unified picture of projects and strategies; if you aren’t ready to do that in a certain situation, hold off on saying anything until you are. And don’t ask for updates unless you really need them. That kind of message appears urgent, even when it’s not. Always specify what information you need, why and when, so you don’t create an unnecessary fire drill.

(Adapted from “To Get More Done, Focus on Environment, Expectations and Examples,” by John Zeratsky.)

Should you move for a new job?

Sometimes the perfect job is thousands of miles away. How do you know if it’s worth relocating for a new opportunity? You might be tempted to weigh the pros and cons in an Excel spreadsheet, but it’s better to think holistically about your personal and professional goals. For example, consider the lifestyle you’ll have in the new location. Do you want a small-town life, or do you prefer a big city? Do you want to spend your weekends travelling, or do you want to feel rooted in a community? Think about the repercussions of taking the job, especially for your partner and kids. Will your spouse be able to find meaningful work after the move? Be realistic about what the move will mean for your family, and talk it through — a lot. If you’re still not sure what to do, you may want to try a short-term stint or job swap to test out the new location before committing.

(Adapted from “How to Decide Whether to Relocate for a Job,” by Rebecca Knight.)

Published in Dawn, The Business and Finance Weekly, February 4th, 2019