Career Tune-Up July 2007

October 2007

Professional success in this highly competitive world is based on performance. Employers expect workers to be highly-productive and current in their field. Promotions, salary increases and job security go to “A-level” performers.

Employees must take a proactive approach to career management. It is an employee’s responsibility to continuously add new abilities to their skill set and use that knowledge on the job. Life-long learning is critical. It is no longer enough to work hard and be loyal to your employer. Today’s workers must work smarter and create their own opportunities for advancement.

Creating a “professional development plan” can help you determine ways to add value at your current position.

	Tuition reimbursement programs Many employers will help cover the cost of courses related to your current position. Continuing education credits may be used toward certification and/or a degree. Non-credit classes in business, management, technical skills, communication and personal enrichment are available locally at an affordable cost.
	Employer-sponsored training On-site programs for employees tend to address issues currently relevant to the company. Participation provides information that may be immediately useful and sends a clear message that you are interested in being part of the solution.
	Professional Associations Join the professional association affiliated with your field or industry to stay current on trends. Most offer conferences, workshops and seminars on topics of interest to members. The opportunity to network with colleagues is an added bonus.
	Publications Stay abreast of current trends by reading current trade materials. Visit your local library, subscribe to industry journals, or surf the Internet to learn about trends and industry changes.

Pursuing professional development opportunities will require good time management and organizational skills. You may have to temporarily sacrifice some other activities in order to devote time to expanding your skill set. With some advance planning – and a positive attitude – you can increase your marketability. The CEO staff is available if you need help in managing your career plan. Contact us at 614-292-3503, 292-8493 or careerexploration@osu.edu.

According to a study by the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE), the skills most desired in management-level employees are:

	Oral communication skills
	Interpersonal skills
	Analytical skills
	Teamwork skills
	Flexibility
	Computer skills
	Proficiency in a field of study
	Written communication skills
	Leadership skills
	Work experience

If your career goals include a management-level position, consider developing skills in one or more of these areas. For more information on career transitions, contact the Career Exploration Office at 614-292-3503, 292-8493 or www.careers.ohiostatealumni.org.

The Buckeye Job Board is a job posting site offered through the Career Exploration Office. Clients of the CEO are invited to view full-time career opportunities with employers seeking experienced candidates for open positions. Employers/recruiters are invited to post open positions for 30 days. There is no fee to use this service. For more information, visit www.careers.ohiostatealumni.org.

You have received this email in response to an inquiry made to the Career Exploration Office. If you do not wish to receive the CEO Career Tune-Up, please send your request to be removed from the mailing list to careerexploration@osu.edu.

Career Exploration Office, 152 Mount Hall, 1050 Carmack Road, Columbus, Ohio 43210-1002
(614) 292-8493 or (614) 292-3503, www.careers.ohiostatealumni.org, e-mail: careerexploration@osu.edu.