Take control of your career

- Managers are busy, … and while we'd like to believe … they have our career development in mind, … this isn't always the case. … In fact, I've heard clients tell me … their managers have actively blocked their advancement … because they didn't want to spend time … backfilling their position. … But even if your manager isn't evil, … they may be too caught up in their own stress and problems … to be paying full attention to your aspirations. … So don't wait until you're chosen to step forward. … Rather, begin to pave the path on your own. … Here's how. … Plant seeds. … The popular phrase, "You don't get if you don't ask," … applies here in spades. … Does your manager know your goals? … Or assume you're content with the status quo? … Even if your manager is fully supportive … of your advancement, … springing a sudden request on them … will likely not result in the desired outcome. … Instead, share your aspirations … long before you expect them to materialize. … This way your manager can feel like an active participant …