How to... have conversations about mid level career development
Understanding Mid Level Career Development
A mid career level professional has often developed significant expertise in one or more areas. They seek opportunities to develop or adapt career opportunities. Many have families and look for work / life balance. They can be passionate about particular areas, but also are at risk of burnout. These are people who are talented and have lots to offer if personal and organisational drivers and goals can align.
Things to consider
Useful Questions
When we are experienced and skilled we can often get stuck in a rut of how we see things. Asking this question opens up possibility
Instead of seeing what skills, experience or knowledge we do not have, look at where the strengths lie and build on those
At mid career level talent can easily get caught up with focussing on technical skill. However, behaviours will be the key dfferentiator at the next level
It’s the old adage, it’s not what you know, it’s who you know and this is very true at this stage of your career. Start building relationships beyond the team or role you have. Build relationships and connections across the organisation and outside it
It can be easy to think your manager is a mind reader. Choosing to express in a positive and effective way, what things we would like from our career will enable further conversations
It can either feel like their are too many options or none at all. What decisions do you need to make about your approach, current working practices, ownership of your career? What are they, who can help you and what conversation could you have?
