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Five ways to level up in your career zone

The University of Western AustraliaSponsored
Expert advice on how to advance in our career zones.
Camera IconExpert advice on how to advance in our career zones. Credit: Getty Images.

Deciding to upskill in your profession can open doors you never knew existed, give you a diverse perspective and lend empowerment to oneself. When we asked for his expertise Professor Allan Trench said the importance of upskilling was about enduring.

“The two most critical factors in building a great career are straightforward,” Professor Trench told us.

“Firstly, make sure you perform in your current role extremely well.

“Secondly, add extra skills in readiness for your next role.”

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Professor Trench is the Director of the MBA program at The University of Western Australia, and he kindly gave us advice on how we can advance professionally.

Look at the bigger picture

While focusing on details is important, it is essential to take a step back and see the bigger picture from time-to-time.

“Broaden your perspective when looking at your current role beyond your immediate area of technical expertise,” Professor Trench said.

Looking at the bigger picture can help you better understand where you’re going, give you a better perspective, and allow you to create a clearer vision of your goals – crucial for achievement in the workplace.

Broaden your network

Expanding your contacts can expand your opportunities overall. Connect with people you resonate with, and who can help you grow professionally.

“Meet like-minded peers who have the potential to be future leaders,” Professor Trench said.

The more you network, the more you’ll grow and learn how to maintain relationships. If you’re not sure where to start, try seeking out a networking event or an online forum.

Aim to learn more on key future themes

Prospection opens our minds to the future, and the possibilities of that future.

“Some suggestions would be the likes of energy transition, the circular economy, the future of work, ethical supply chains, fintech and biotech,” Professor Trench said.

It’s hard not to imagine a future that doesn’t involve themes like these ones, so learning about them is extremely relevant, and can be beneficial, to your future self.

Focus on understanding people

The skill of understanding others helps us navigate situations.

“Take an interest in how people act and behave, for example, by reading up on applied psychology and behavioural economics,” Professor Trench said.

Learn more about yourself

Understand yourself better, this is one of the most important things you can do. What are your strengths and what do you struggle with?

“Take the time to be self-reflective, identifying those areas where you excel and also areas where you need to challenge yourself to master new skills,” Professor Trench said.

This will help you focus on areas you need to improve on and use your talents to your advantage.

There’s no time like the present

Now to put all this advice into action, and to step away from the procrastination station (your biggest competitor).

“One of the most common comments we hear is along the lines of ‘I wish I’d started the learning journey sooner as I’m putting the extra knowledge and insights into my work straightaway’,” Professor Trench said.

The University of Western Australia has opened their MBA offering, a broadening degree for post-grad students wishing to upskill. You can expect to learn new skills that will help your management and leadership career journey, including everything from core skills in understanding economics, accounting, finance and marketing, through to transformational skills in negotiation, leading others and enacting organisational change.

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