The phrase "career progression" refers to more than simply the benchmarks we set for ourselves in terms of advancement and switching careers. Instead, it is a continuous process of learning and development that equips us with the ability to achieve both our long-term and short-term work goals.
But not everyone has this urge as naturally as others. Some people are not motivated to move forward and find comfort in the stability of a consistent role. It makes sense because, despite the apparent benefits, change can be frightening and it takes courage to put yourself forward in new circumstances.
Others might simply feel content in their existing roles; if your job satisfies your needs and wants, you might not feel the need to advance your career.
Why is it important to have career progression?
Growth and change are inevitable no matter where you are in your work journey, so it's essential to have goals and objectives even if you don't immediately take action. Because of this, businesses like to inquire where you see yourself in five years as opposed to six months.
Without a clear objective in mind, it can be challenging to identify success as well as growth. Asking your coworkers for help or, even better, your manager can be a fantastic idea if you don't know where to start. They'll probably be just as eager to see you succeed because it will be in their best interests as well.
Employees who actively participate in training programs are more likely to be retained by their employers, and employees with a variety of skills have a particular advantage. Furthermore, according to studies, 94% of workers will decide to remain with a company that gives them the chance to advance their careers.
If you are wondering why is it important to have career progression? Here are 4 ways that career advancement might help your personal development if you need a little extra encouragement to make the next step.
Career progression for personal development
1. Greater satisfaction at work
Nothing compares to the satisfaction of a job well done. You'll have the chance to realize your full potential if your career has room for growth.
The most common definition of job satisfaction is attributed to Edwin A. Locke, who defined it as "a happy or good emotional state resulting from the appraisal of one's job or experiences." Although it might seem like a basic concept, it has been used since the 1970s to assist quantify job satisfaction, and the research appears to support it.
According to studies, the UK has the lowest rate of work satisfaction in Europe, with only 64% of respondents claiming to be content in their current position. However, the same 64% of workers who said their total job happiness was considerably more essential than their wage opted for "passion above pay." But sadly, data shows that a quarter of workers believe they don't have the chance to advance their professions, which is another element in a disgruntled workforce.
Aside from poor management, low compensation, and a sense of undervaluation are some of the other major factors that contribute to job unhappiness. But by focusing on your own growth, you will immediately add value to your workplace and industry, creating opportunities both inside and outside of your current organization.
The importance of job happiness to employees in the workplace is rising. Work together with your manager to develop a growth strategy that will maximize your job satisfaction.
2. Financial growth
The world is said to revolve around money.
However low on employees' priority lists it may be, according to a study, who among us wouldn't gain from a small raise in pay?
Increased financial freedom also comes with work advancement. Nobody wants to live paycheck to paycheck, and as your work progresses and your compensation inevitably rises, it also means reaching personal milestones.
Financial growth enables you to save more money each month for unforeseen emergencies, even if you don't have any plans to become a luxury spender.
3. Constantly looking for new challenges
You must go up if you've accomplished everything you can in your current position, right?
But if your current position doesn't present any difficulties or opportunities for growth, you probably won't stay engaged for very long. Employee engagement often increases when they feel challenged at work, which inevitably results in increased retention rates as well as higher job satisfaction.
New difficulties presented by career advancement will push your mind and improve your skills across a range of domains.
We all enjoy familiarity and routine, but growing too accustomed to your job can leave you unsure of your next move.
Increasing your qualifications will improve your professional possibilities and give you fantastic intellectual challenges, therefore doing so is a good idea. While the task may become more challenging as you advance in your field, you will feel more pride in your accomplishments. This will give you more inspiring opportunities.
You will undoubtedly feel as though you have accomplished something fantastic if you take on and overcome a difficult situation. This sense of accomplishment raises your overall levels of life satisfaction.
4. Increase Your Self-Belief
Confidence is crucial in both your personal and professional life.
98% of workers perform better when they are confident in their job and their abilities, but studies reveal that there is a general lack of confidence in the workplace. Not everyone is inherently confident, and being confident at work can be challenging. According to research, 79% of women report feeling insecure at work, and while many businesses are making an effort to encourage female employees, the lack of confidence in both sexes can be ascribed to a variety of issues, not the least of which is a lack of professional growth.
However, the advantages of enhancing your self-esteem transcend beyond the workplace to penetrate every aspect of your life, strengthening your relationships, and resilience, and creating a stronger sense of self. Career advancement may be deeply gratifying and a great method to build one's confidence.
You'll discover that as your confidence grows, you spend less time subject to the whims of social anxiety because you become less concerned with how other people perceive you.
Conclusion
Why is it important to have career progression?
At every point of your work, you should consider professional advancement. Where you want to be in one, three, or five years should be clear in your mind. Maybe you have an idea of what the next ten years will bring. Don't waste time thinking about what other people will say if you express your viewpoint; you already know where you want to be, so speaking up is necessary to get there.
Get one step closer to your desired result!
Shellye is committed to helping people from diverse backgrounds to achieve their aspirations in careers and life. The content published above was made in collaboration with our members.
Shellye Archambeau is determined to help you with all possible strategies to climb the ladder of success. She values your feedback. Do mention them in the comment section below.