Considering change

You may initiate change through seeking promotions, opportunities to learn additional and different skills or to gain experience.

• Seek changes that satisfy your values and move you closer to goals.
• Avoid falling into a career rut. Keep developing yourself so you stay interested in work. 

Change may also be imposed upon you, due to restructures, changes in management, new technology or marketplace factors.

• Stay well informed and try to anticipate likely changes.
• Prepare for a changing work environment by becoming multi-skilled and adaptable.
• Maintain your enthusiasm and look at change as presenting opportunities.
• Know your strengths so you can articulate them to your employer.

Audit your satisfaction

Ask yourself the following questions at regular intervals during your career to help plan how to progress:

• What are the values that motivate me?
• What kinds of activities do I want to include in my work?
• What type of people do I want to work with?
• What kind of organisation do I want to work in?

Consider whether your potential is being recognised and utilised in your work.

• Has management acknowledged your contributions, especially regarding attitudes, conduct and productivity?
• Have you been offered training or projects that add to your career development?
• Do you still feel like you are growing and advancing?
• Do you feel you are on the right team in the right organisation?
• Are your daily tasks and assignments challenging you? Are you contributing your share of solutions or creative answers?

Workplace secondments

A secondment is like a temporary transfer to another role within your organisation.

• The time frame for the position will usually be set beforehand, after which the employee goes back to their original job (referred to as their substantive position).
• Applying for a secondment is usually similar to applying for a job internally. It may be necessary to put together a written application, or submit an expression of interest.

Advantages:

• the organisation makes the most of existing employees' expertise
• the employee has an opportunity to expand their skill base without having to leave their employer.