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Taking a proactive approach to your career doesn't require a 10 year plan. By being present and open to opportunities you can learn and develop regardless of role.
In our live panel discussion "Own Your Career" in NYC with our panelists Alexandra Thompson (Braze), Kristin Thayer (Watershed), Jessica Lin (Work-Bench), and Katie Capuzzo (WISE) shared their journeys and perspectives in navigating a career in sales.
Here are some key takeaways to guide you in your professional journey.
If you want to progress in your career, you have to embrace change.
Be curious and open to opportunities to learn and round out your experience, without over indexing on title. Exploration of role, location, and industry is healthy, but be cautious not to change everything all at once.
What are your nonnegotiables?
In a job search, you should take time to outline the key things you’re seeking, so you don’t get distracted by temporary excitement. Examples could be company growth, high caliber team, challenging role, mission-driven company. Side note: Before leaving your current company, it’s important to reflect and ensure you’re leaving for the right reasons. Some of the best career decisions can come from staying in the game and growing within an org.
Career quality is greater than career progression.
Trust your intuition and know it’s okay to make lateral career moves that will better position you in the long term. Make yourself visible by building strong relationships. Also reminder, work isn't everything! It's important to be fulfilled outside of work (socializing, hobbies, volunteering).
Resources:
- Journey Untold, the new WISE podcast
- Ikigai: The Japanese Secret to a Long and Happy Life
Need some career advice? Ask our experts at advice@womeninsaleseverywhere.com.
Want to learn more? You can stream the full event recording here.
Thank you to all of the WISE partners for making this event possible and our panelists for sharing their time and advice.
