Many of us mistakenly believe that we aren't the ones in control of our own careers. We might think it's our manager's or mentor's responsibility to guide our growth. But how can you or anyone else, steer your career if you don’t know what success looks like for you in your current role?

Here are some key insights to ensure your career develops in the direction you want it to.

Where do you want to be in five years?

I know, it’s a common question that can be frustrating but it’s crucial to think about where you want to guide your career. As an engineer (or professional in your field), there are several potential pathways. Identify a path that not only interests you but also challenges you. Make sure your choice excites you as much as it pushes you to grow.

Set your milestone and long-term goals, it’s time to move to the next stage.

Creating the Vision

Now it’s time to make an actionable plan with a timeline and framework to reach your goals.

Start by asking yourself if your current company can support you in achieving your milestone and long-term goals. This is critical. Many people stay in their comfort zone but that’s often where career development stalls. I’m not suggesting that you constantly move companies but if your current organisation aligns with your goals, that’s ideal. Set up a meeting with your manager to discuss your goals and set achievable timelines. This is your opportunity to set clear durations for your goals with your manager's support. Also, ask for company specific goals that can help you track progress towards your personal objectives. This step clarifies who really drives your career development, spoiler: it's you.

Setting Clear Expectations

I often talk about this because it’s one of the most overlooked aspects of career development. Many of us sign a contract with little review or perhaps a quick look, without understanding the role's full expectations. In my experience, only a few clients have ever had clear expectations and parameters set for their roles. Yet, this understanding is crucial for knowing what value you’re expected to bring to the company.

Here’s my suggestion: whether you're about to sign a new contract or you're currently in a role, make sure you understand the expectations of your position. If you're already in a role, request a meeting with your manager to review their expectations. Ask about your current performance, what high performance looks like to them and what constitutes underperformance. Every leader, manager or mentor will have unique expectations, so having this clarity is essential.

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Does it feel like there’s a misalignment between your current role and your career ambitions? Try applying the guidance in this newsletter to see if it makes a difference.

Please feel free to reach out if you'd like more tailored career advice. All feedback is welcome!