As we navigate our careers, having the right support and guidance can make all the difference. But when do we most need this support, what should we look for in our career network, and who can fulfil these important roles? This article explores these questions to hopefully help you think through your own career support network and what you need from it.
When Do We Need Career Support?
Throughout our professional journeys, there are many scenarios where we can benefit from external perspective and guidance, such as:
- Strategy Development: You might have a general idea of where you want to go, but struggle to see the path to get there. A strong support network can help you plan your next steps and clarify your approach.
- Direction Finding: Sometimes, the next step isn’t clear at all. Support can be valuable as you explore what’s important to you, your strengths, and your aspirations so that you can identify potential career directions that are right for you.
- Navigating Transitions: Whether you’re changing roles within your team, moving to a new part of the business, or joining a different company, transitions can be challenging. Support during these times can help you adapt more smoothly and make the most of new opportunities.
- Returning to Work: As a three-time maternity returner myself, I can attest to the value of having people in your corner who truly understand the unique challenges of re-entering the workforce after a significant break.
- Professional Growth: In a rapidly evolving work landscape, we all need guidance to identify growth areas that align with both market demands and our personal strengths. This is especially important when aiming for promotions or new roles.
- Overcoming Challenges: Whether you’re petrified of presenting, dreading delegating, not fond of networking or perpetually procrastinating, your career support network can provide invaluable help in tackling these hurdles that may be holding you back.
What Should We Look for in Our Career Support Network?
When building your career corner, consider looking for individuals that offer:
- Independence and Objectivity: People who can provide unbiased, balanced perspectives, free from workplace politics or personal agendas.
- Confidentiality and Safety: Trustworthy individuals with whom you feel comfortable sharing your concerns and aspirations openly, without fear of judgment.
- Empathy and Understanding: Supporters who understand and relate to your situation and feelings, while seeing and hearing the authentic you.
- Professionalism and Integrity: Those who maintain a high standard of conduct and can guide you in navigating professional environments.
- Active Support: People willing to take concrete actions to help you, whether through introductions, skill-sharing, or mentorship.
- Relevant Experience: Individuals who have navigated similar career paths or challenges and can offer practical insights.
- Constructive Challenge: People who aren’t afraid to question your assumptions or push you out of your comfort zone when helpful.
- Influence: Where appropriate, connections to decision-makers or others who can open doors for you.
Who Might Be in Your Network?
So now we’ve identified when we may need support and what we might look for, who might already fill these roles or be potential additions to your support network:
- Company Mentor: Someone within your organisation who can guide you through company-specific challenges and opportunities.
- External Mentor: A professional from outside your company who can offer insights into broader industry trends and career advice.
- Internal Coach: A coach within your organisation who can help you develop specific skills or navigate internal dynamics.
- Independent Coach: An external professional who can provide objective, confidential guidance in a safe space, and support across various aspects of your career.
- Colleagues: Peers who understand your day-to-day challenges and can offer practical advice or emotional support.
- Friends and Family: Those who know you best and can provide personal support and broader life perspective.
- Direct Manager: Your immediate supervisor, who can offer feedback, advocate for you, and help align your goals with organisational needs.
- Senior Leaders: Higher-level managers who can provide strategic insights and potentially champion your career progression.
- Professional Association or External Network Members: People in your field who can offer industry-specific advice and networking opportunities.
- Alumni Network: Former classmates or colleagues who can provide diverse perspectives and potential opportunities.
Remember, your career corner doesn’t need to include all of these roles, and one person might fulfil multiple functions. The key is to build a diverse network that covers your various needs and provides well-rounded support.
Something to think through is how different combinations might work for you. For example, an internal mentor may be able to provide active support, but their position in the organisation might make you hesitant to be completely open. Friends and family might be strong on empathy and understanding but limited on relevant career experience.
Building Your Career Corner
As you reflect on your current support network, consider these questions:
- Do you have supporters who can help in the scenarios you see on your career horizon?
- Does your network embody the qualities outlined above, and in the right combinations?
- Are there gaps in your support system that you need to fill?
Building a strong career corner is an ongoing process. It requires intentional effort to nurture existing relationships and seek out new ones. Don’t be afraid to reach out and ask for the support you need – most people are happy to help, and you might be surprised by the wealth of knowledge and experience already in your network that you’re not fully tapping into.
Remember, the goal isn’t to have the largest network, but to cultivate meaningful relationships that truly support your career growth and personal well-being. With the right people in your corner, you’ll be better equipped to navigate challenges, seize opportunities, and move your career forward positively.
Don’t hesitate to reach out if you’re thinking about your own career corner. Whether it’s finding clarity, navigating transitions, or just knowing where to start, I’m always happy to chat and share ideas.