After spending several years sitting through performance review sessions, I notice that employees are often focused on prestigious titles and salary increases. Some truly deserve these rewards for their outstanding work, while others are granted these as a retention strategy. Then there are those who leave an organization simply because they weren’t given a title that they felt they really deserved.
There are also the career-focused individuals who seek a clear progression plan and value personal growth beyond just monetary rewards. However, this group tends to be much smaller. So, what does real growth mean? Should you be content with a fancy title and a hefty paycheck at the end of the month?
Most people follow the common approach to assess their growth: “Where do I see myself in the next 3-5 years, and will my current role help me get there?” If the answer is yes, then you’re on the path to growth. But is this enough in a world where things are changing in the blink of an eye? Not really.
Here are some questions you should ask yourself. Your growth-o-meter –
Am I acquiring new skills?
It’s easy to fall into a routine at work, where we repeat the same tasks day in and day out without realizing that we’re not broadening our skillsets. Without actively acquiring new skills or finding more efficient ways to perform familiar tasks, growth stagnates. For continuous career and personal development, it’s crucial to increase our skill sets to hedge against events that we have no control over. It is actually about adding more skills to your toolbox so that you can pivot quickly when necessary. Keep in mind that while you might be climbing the career ladder, if you’re not learning new skills, your outdated or limited abilities could eventually curtail your growth.
Has my manager really discussed areas for my improvement?
Many employees take pride in receiving high ratings on performance reviews, believing that they’re excelling in both their functional and behavioral skills. While this can be gratifying, it’s important to remember that perfection is unattainable. There’s always room for improvement. As the saying goes, “perfection is a myth, real people have flaws”. If you’re not aware of the areas you need to develop, you may inadvertently be stalling your own growth. Embracing continuous improvement is not just beneficial; it’s crucial for your career progression and to stay ahead in a dynamic business environment.
Do I have a mentor or coach to guide me?
In today’s fast-paced world, we face numerous challenges at work, from growing competition to rapid technological changes and complex human dynamics. Having someone experienced to guide, provide clarity and direction has never been more essential. Having a good mentor can help you gain different perspectives, expand your thinking and refine your skills. Navigating the complexities of the corporate world without guidance can slow your progress and hinder your success.
Am I staying current with the latest developments in my field?
With the rapid pace of digital transformation and the rise of AI, industries are being rapidly disrupted and the world is evolving at an unprecedented rate. Before we can fully grasp one change, another often follows. It’s crucial to stay informed about the latest trends and advancements in your area of work regardless of your role. This not only helps you remain competitive but also ensures you’re acquiring the skills necessary to stay relevant in the industry.
Where are people in my age group today?
It’s not about comparing yourself to others out of jealousy, but rather drawing inspiration from the successes of your peers. Ask yourself, “If they can do it, why can’t I?” Use the experiences of your classmates and colleagues as motivation to work harder and smarter. While your journey is unique, there’s value in learning from the path others have taken to achieve their goals.
While this may not be a comprehensive list for assessing your growth, it can serve as a starting point to help you focus on the bigger picture and look beyond titles and paychecks. It’s never too late to reignite your career and embark on a new learning journey.