During the global pandemic, it has become more difficult for professionals to develop themselves in their career. This is especially the case for the younger generation, as they are facing significant challenges at the moment. While working from home, you also may feel disconnected or feel that the priority is focused on something else than your career development. But there are many ways you can take action to develop your career. You are the one in control. The time to take action is now.

The first step in taking control is identifying your aims. Identify the goals you have and what you want to accomplish in the coming period. You need to know where you are going, otherwise, it is hard to know how to get there. Over the course of your career, the end goal may change, but it is important to stay focused so that you are moving in the right direction.

It is important to know where your areas of improvement lay so that you are able to progress. Ask for feedback from the people around you. Do not be scared to ask managers, supervisors or other people. Getting this feedback will only help you in the long run of your career development. Improving to become the best version of yourself will remain important throughout your whole career. Learning is never done.

Do not be scared to look for opportunities. These opportunities will help you grow. You can broaden your perspective in many different ways. You can look inside your organization, but also in your community which may give you a broader view of opportunities available. Networking with different kinds of people outside your own department will give you sources of knowledge and experience that you may not have gotten when looking only inside your own department. Do not limit yourself as there are so many different opportunities out there. Do not be afraid to be confident and take opportunities head on.

You do not have to do it alone. When you have established your goals, you are able to communicate them to others who can help you achieve them. It may help you to get a mentor who can help you with your learning objectives as they have probably already been at that same stage in their career where you are at. A mentor provides a sounding board and can be a guide in the exploration of career interests and options.

No matter what challenges you are facing there will always be the possibility to come out even stronger. Do not be afraid and take control over your own career development.

“Do not fear failure but rather fear not trying.” (Roy. T. Bennett).