BCjobs Blog

Here’s a practical list of my top 10 career strategies to employ if you want to advance your career this year.

Let’s face it –there are high expectations in our society regarding our performance, professionalism, output and activities. It seems I’m supposed to be a high-output, multi-tasking entrepreneurial networker, who’s up-to-date on the latest advances in technology and trends in my sector, while also managing my many relationships and arriving at meetings on time. Whew!

Have you heard the term life-long learning a lot lately? It’s the catch phrase used in the career and education sectors to emphasize the need to stay up to date with the relevant knowledge and skills required in our fast paced knowledge based economy. Although I must agree with the underlying concept of staying ‘up-to-date’, it can all sound so overwhelming and disheartening. Life Loooooooong Learning – schooling for life, night courses forever – ugh!

Did another job slip away from you? Did you feel like you got fired before you got hired? Ever wonder why? There are so many dos and don’ts when it comes to jobsearch etiquette, yet many fail to mention painfully obvious and everyday things that could actually cost you a job.

Companies have them. At least, the good to great ones do. But have you ever considered if you have one and what people think about you? Some people might call it your image.
I see it as far more than that. And the proof is found when good to great companies connect with you.

Many professionals have felt the shock of layoffs during these difficult times — including those who kept their jobs. According to administrative staffing firm OfficeTeam, employees who survive corporate downsizings often must manage heavier workloads and stay motivated while worrying that their jobs could be eliminated next.

One of the first steps you should take when beginning your career exploration and planning process is undergoing a thorough self-awareness process that looks at your preferences, what motivates you, and your past successes.

You are an entrepreneur and your company is you. Your paycheque is the revenue generated from the services you provide your employer. Like any successful business, you want to maximize your revenues and retain the customer – in this case, your employer. This is achieved by providing high quality service and charging a fee that is competitive and worthy of the value provided. Put simply, you want to get paid what you are worth.

Salary discussions may be the most anxiety-provoking part of a job interview. Many people feel embarrassed or pressured when it comes to talking money. Although job seekers often hear that they should wait for the interviewer to bring up salary

Did you know employers sometimes pay a premium for the right education and experience? Or that you might be able to earn more by doing the same job in a larger company?