Given the lasting traces of COVID, working from home, and the “great resignation,” it’s no wonder that some STEM women don’t have time to focus on their careers. Career planning is a “nice” to do not a “must.” However, I believe this is short-sighted. Now is the best time to turn your thoughts to getting your career jump-started. 2023 is just around the corner and you can start the New Year off on the right foot with a well-conceived career plan. How to do this?
The first step is to assess who is in your current network and whose relationships with you are rock solid. For example, some STEM women have a mentor, a seasoned professional who takes an active role in helping you advance your career. Ask yourself: do I need a mentor for their technical expertise or do a need a mentor with demonstrated leadership acumen? Maybe both. When was the last time you had a career conversation with your mentor? Take the initiative, schedule a chat now.
The second step is to think about who else is in your network — who you can approach to jet propel your career planning. I suggest three advisors who know you and who you know and trust. These three will play unique roles in getting you the visibility and promotions you need, want, and deserve.
Sponsor — this is a senior executive who has resources, financial, human, and other valuable assets that you are missing. For example, approach a sponsor to fund a conference for you to attend. Ask a sponsor for before/after work lab space to conduct your own research. See if an advisor can share equipment, computer access or state of the art applications not available through your department.
Advocate — another senior executive who knows you and knows your track record. An advocate is someone who can recommend you for new job opportunities of which you are unaware. An advocate can speak well of you when you are not in the room when future leaders are being discussed. An advocate is your cheerleader and is a source of inspiration and positive regard.
Connector — a connector can be either inside your firm, from another firm or even another industry. A connector can be someone at your level, below or above. Their key attribute is who they know and how they can open doors for you. A connector can make a cool connection by sending an email introducing you to someone who could be your future manager. A hot connection would be to be on the Zoom call or at the coffee shop when you meet, you, the connector and the lucky person who is meeting you for the first time.
The third step is to carefully craft your request for help. Explain why you are seeking their advice now. Be specific with what you want. Keep everyone informed of your successes, accomplishments, and achievements.
Add a sponsor, advocate, and connector along with your mentor and you will have a Career Board of Directors.
