"Surround yourself with people who are only going to lift you higher." This quote from Oprah Winfrey speaks volumes when it comes to seeking career advice. We all know the importance of networking, but who exactly should you turn to when you're in need of guidance on your career path?
Who to Ask for Career Advice: Finding the Right People to Guide You
Finding the right person to ask for advice can make all the difference between gaining actionable insights and getting generic, one-size-fits-all answers. Let’s dig into six specific people to consider when looking for career advice, and how to approach each of them effectively.
1. Your Manager or Direct Supervisor
One of the most obvious choices is your current manager or direct supervisor. They know your skills, work ethic, and career trajectory better than most. However, it’s crucial to choose the right moment to ask for advice. Ideally, approach them during a one-on-one meeting or performance review when the focus is already on your professional development.
Action Step: Ask questions like, "What skills should I focus on developing to reach the next level?" or "Are there opportunities for growth in my current role that I might not be seeing?" This shows your commitment to improving within the organisation.
2. A Trusted Colleague or Peer
Sometimes the best advice comes from someone who is at the same level as you. A trusted colleague or peer can provide a fresh perspective on the challenges you're facing. They’ve been through similar situations and understand the nuances of your role. Plus, the comfort level with a peer allows for a more candid conversation.
Action Step: Start by sharing a career challenge you’re currently facing and ask, "How have you handled similar situations?" This not only opens the door for practical advice but also strengthens your professional relationship.
3. An Industry Mentor
Mentors are invaluable resources for career advice, especially if they come from your specific industry. They’ve walked the path you’re on and can offer guidance that is both strategic and practical. An industry mentor can help you avoid common pitfalls and give you the inside scoop on trends and opportunities that aren’t publicly visible.
Action Step: If you don’t have a mentor yet, consider reaching out to a seasoned professional on LinkedIn or through your industry’s networking events. When you do connect, start with a specific question like, "What skills do you think will be most in demand in our industry in the next few years?"
4. Someone Outside Your Industry
It might seem counterintuitive, but asking someone outside your industry for career advice can provide a unique perspective that you wouldn’t otherwise consider. They can offer fresh insights that aren’t coloured by industry norms or biases, helping you think creatively about your career path and options.
Action Step: Seek out a professional from a different field who has a skill set or career trajectory you admire. Ask them, "How would you approach this challenge if you were in my shoes?" This will help you gain a broader viewpoint and think outside the box.
5. A Former Manager
If you left a job on good terms, a former manager can be an excellent source of career advice. They have a deep understanding of your strengths and areas for improvement and can offer unbiased opinions since they're not directly involved in your current role. Former managers can also provide a valuable perspective on how your skills have evolved over time.
Action Step: Reconnect with your former manager and frame the conversation around your growth. For example, "Based on how you saw my development when we worked together, what would you recommend as my next step?" This approach will make the discussion more focused and productive.
6. A Career Coach
Sometimes, the best person to ask for career advice is a professional whose job is to give it! Career coaches specialise in helping people navigate their professional lives. They can offer personalized advice, practical strategies, and actionable steps to achieve your goals. Investing in a career coach might seem like a luxury, but it can be a game-changer when you’re at a crossroads.
Action Step: When selecting a career coach, make sure to do your research. Look for someone with experience in your industry or with a proven track record of helping people achieve results similar to what you're aiming for. Ask them targeted questions like, "What steps do you recommend for someone looking to make a career transition?"
Final Thoughts
Knowing who to ask for career advice is just as important as knowing when and how to ask for it. Surrounding yourself with the right mentors, peers, and professionals can accelerate your career growth and open doors to new opportunities. At Perennial HR, we specialis e in providing career coaching tailored to your unique needs, helping you navigate transitions and advance your professional journey. Whether you're seeking guidance on a new direction or need help refining your career goals, our team is here to help you reach your full potential.
For more insights on career growth, check out our articles on 6 proven tips to ace your interview and How to optimise your linkedin profile. Remember, the right advice can be transformative, and Perennial HR is here to guide you every step of the way.
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