Tag: Career Advancement

On average, people spend about 50% of their waking hours working. It’s no wonder our work environment significantly impacts our happiness and satisfaction, and if we have a choice, we all want the time we spend working to be time well spent. 

Typically, the company type or stage and the size set the tone for the culture and environment. You’ll find that experienced professionals have preferences and passions for particular businesses, such as start-ups, scale-ups, or large corporations. Each has its pros and cons. 

Let’s look at the types of work environments and companies so that you can learn how to choose the right work environment for you.

Start-ups

A start-up is a company in the initial stages of business. It’s usually still developing its business model to grow exponentially. This phase is the riskiest stage of a company’s life cycle (around 75% of start-ups fail). Just this brief description gives a glimpse into what you can expect working here: you’ll experience change, focus on growth and experimentation, and must be hard-working, agile, and committed to the company’s purpose. 

10 Things to know about the start-up environment

1. Employees tend to be young, collaborative risk-takers attracted to the creative culture and opportunity to build something from the ground up. 

2. The job you’re hired for could evolve as the business’s strategy changes.

3. Small teams mean you’ll often work out of your wheelhouse to get the job done. If the workload isn’t effectively managed, it could mean long hours. 

4. Start-ups are rarely hierarchical, so ample opportunities exist to diversify your skillset. But, with only a few roles, promotions may be less common.
5. You’ll have access to smart digital tools that make work asynchronous, efficient, and remote.

6. Unfortunately, poor management is common among start-ups and contributes significantly to their failure, even in start-ups with high potential. Regardless, the environment offers an opportunity to learn directly from leaders and entrepreneurial founders.

7. The niche focus, smaller size, and lack of bureaucracy allow start-ups to innovate and introduce new products and services faster than corporates.
8. Communication between employees and leaders is transparent and open, and you’re likely to be involved in decision-making.

9. It’s a fast-paced environment, so you must be flexible enough to adapt to constant change and be comfortable with uncertainty. 

10. Start-ups typically don’t offer the benefits you get at larger companies. Still, the payoff is personally being able to impact the culture and business trajectory.

Scale-ups

When a company has a mature and profitable product or service and has established a product-market fit, it generally moves into scale-up territory. The scale-up phase is typically fast-paced, focusing on growth, recruitment, and market expansion. 

10 Things to know about scale-ups

1. Employees’ experience levels range from junior to senior, teams are larger, and organisation structures are more formalised. 

2. Joining a scale-up is less ‘risky’ – meaning the company has proven itself in the market but is still growing and evolving.

3. Like start-ups, fast company growth means your role and competencies could change. It’s an exciting opportunity but can be challenging for some.

4. With more roles and teams, you have the ability to promote and move laterally across departments.
5. Scale-ups hire more specialised people with more defined roles instead of all-rounders.

6. Scale-ups offer great opportunities to the emerging workforce, with eight in 10 employing graduates and six in 10 offering apprenticeships and/or work experience.

7. Scaling up can create isolating silos as departments are formed, which could impact the ease of cross-functional collaboration.
8. As a company scales up, it may become less transparent in its decision-making processes.

9. Scale-ups are perfect for innovators who like to take the initiative and want to make a positive impact while meeting their career growth ambitions.

10. Rapid organisational change means the ‘move fast and break things’ culture could replace a high-pressured, goal-focused market culture.

Big corporations

Large companies have established themselves as leaders in their respective industries. Although intensive growth could have slowed down by this stage, they have enough resources to weather economic downturns and invest in long-term projects and their people. Generally, they’ll seek to expand their product or service and global footprint.

10 Things to know about big corporations

1. You’ll be working in large teams with diverse professionals who are potentially located around the world. 

2. Big corporations typically have well-known brands, and working for them adds value and recognition to your CV.

3. There is a clear organisational hierarchy and established job descriptions; you’ll operate in the role you were hired for. 

4. Big companies have well-defined processes, which offer pros and cons. Decisions may be slower and processes less agile, but the steps are already established. 

5. There’s often less transparency when sharing information with the employees. 

6. You’ll typically be offered work perks and benefits, from subsidised food and free coffee to health insurance and retirement savings. 

7. You have access to large pools of working resources and exposure to a diverse, multicultural working environment.

8. While they’re highly efficient, large companies are less open to change. Your creativity, ingenuity, and ability to think outside the box may not be prioritised.
9. There are many opportunities for professional development through learning and development programmes, mentorship, and networking.
10. You’ll learn valuable skills to launch your own business and start-up. 

Align your strengths and interests with a company

Understanding a business’s structure and life cycle gives you a glimpse into the culture, pace, and career potential. 

Each company above shows the signs of a positive work environment – but there may be one more suited to your personality, strengths, and goals. Here are three steps for how to choose the right work environment for you:

1. Understand yourself. Do a personality test like Enneagram or Gallop Clifton Strengths to help you figure out your character traits, preferences, and behavioural patterns. Consider how risk-averse you are, how important established procedures are, and whether you’d like to be a part of something new and evolving or join a more established and stable environment.

2. Research the company culture. There are always exceptions to the norm – even the most established company can still be agile and open to change. You’ll learn much about the culture and environment by exploring a business’s careers and mission page, LinkedIn, and social media. Also, browse employer review sites. If it’s a large company, you can also research what press it receives (and even its stock fluctuation). 

3. Start networking. If you’re interested in a company, reach out to an employee (LinkedIn makes networking very easy and accessible in this way). You may hear about opportunities before they’re advertised, establish a relationship before an interview, and get a first-hand account of the culture.

Use interviews to your benefit

Choosing the right work environment can lead to a job that increases your happiness and satisfaction, and influences your career trajectory.

One of the best opportunities to assess a working environment fit is during an interview.  You can unearth a lot when you phrase a question diplomatically and ask it with genuine interest. Here are ten questions to ask during a culture-fit interview:

1. What would a typical day for me in this role look like?
2. What is the preferred way of communicating here?
3. Do you expect my responsibilities to change in the next six to 12 months?
4. How will my role support the company to reach its goals?
5. What type of people are successful here, and how are they rewarded?
6. What’s your favourite part of working here, and what excites you about the company’s future?
7. How do employees contribute to the company’s values?
8. How has the company changed over the last few months/years?
9. What challenges are the company facing?
10. What’s your favourite office tradition?

What’s next? Once you’ve decided on a company and applied for a role, this is how you can prepare for (and nail) a job interview.

As the year draws to a close, it’s normal to feel a bit drained. While we all aspire for productivity and fulfilment, it’s crucial to acknowledge that allowing ourselves moments of rest is just as important as getting everything done.

The end of the year presents the perfect opportunity for a reset. It allows us to recharge for the new year ahead, reflect on our accomplishments, set new intentions, and relax – properly.

Here are some tips on how to take a better break from work during the end-of-the-year festive season. From planning a staycation to disconnecting from technology, we’ll discuss actionable strategies to leave you feeling refreshed and motivated, ready to take on the new year.

The importance of taking breaks

Taking time off from work to rest, relax, and recharge is not just a luxury – it’s a necessity. In today’s fast-paced lifestyle, it’s important to recognise that productivity and success are not synonymous with endless work hours and the absence of breaks.

Research shows that individuals who take breaks during the workday and utilise their holiday time perform better than those who don’t. Breaks are proven to decrease stress levels, lower the risk of burnout and mental health issues, and improve overall well-being.

In a society that encourages a fast-paced and highly productive lifestyle, it’s more crucial than ever to prioritise taking time off.  Rest is not a sign of weakness but a smart strategic decision that can lead to greater success in the long term.

4 ways to rest and take a real break

1) Plan ahead

Planning your off time and organising your workload ensures a smooth transition from work to rest.

Start by setting clear boundaries with your colleagues and stakeholders, and communicate these boundaries early on. Let them know what your tasks and deadlines are, and ensure everyone is aware of your leave time. This will help you avoid last-minute requests and keep your workload manageable before your break.

Delegating tasks is also an effective way to manage your workload and avoid unnecessary stress during your time off. Identify tasks that can be delegated and prioritise them based on their importance and urgency. Reach out to colleagues you trust and allocate the tasks accordingly.

Another effective way to manage your workload is to organise tasks and projects based on their importance and deadlines. Break down larger projects into smaller tasks and prioritise them based on urgency and importance.

Bonus tip: Always provide clear instructions and guidelines to avoid any misunderstandings or delays with your delegations. Create a to-do list and schedule your tasks accordingly to ensure maximum productivity.

2) Unplug from work

Amidst the hustle and bustle of our daily professional lives, it’s easy to get consumed by work-related tasks. Sometimes, it reaches the point where disconnecting from work feels impossible, even during our well-deserved breaks.

However, it’s imperative that you take the time to unplug and recharge to maintain a healthy work-life balance.

One way to achieve this is by managing email correspondence effectively, setting up auto-responders to let people know you will not be available, and establishing clearly defined boundaries that discourage work-related intrusions.

As professionals, we must prioritise our well-being to perform at our peak, achieve our long-term career goals, and present our best selves in both our work and personal lives.

3) Relax and take care of yourself

Taking time for relaxation and self-care is crucial for achieving success in both career and personal life. Engaging in activities such as spending time with loved ones, pursuing hobbies, doing physical exercise, and practising mindfulness can significantly rejuvenate your mind and body.

Spending quality time with loved ones can reduce stress and promote a positive mindset. Hobbies like reading, painting, or playing sports can help you unwind and stimulate creative thinking. Physical exercise can improve health, boost confidence, and increase energy levels. Practising mindfulness techniques such as meditation or deep breathing can reduce anxiety and increase focus.

Finally, taking a vacation can provide an opportunity to re-energise and remove yourself from the daily grind, giving your mind and nervous system a much-deserved and needed break.

Incorporating these activities into your routine can positively impact your overall well-being and enhance your productivity and motivation in the workplace.

Bonus tip: Take this holiday season as a time to experiment with what self-care activities work for you, and try to make them a habit for a more balanced mindset in the new year.

4) Reflect and set intentions

Take a moment to reflect on the past 12 months and consider your personal and professional growth. Introspection is a valuable tool that can help you identify your strengths and weaknesses and gain clarity on what you need to work on to reach your full potential.

Setting intentions for the upcoming year can help you realign and focus your energy and motivation towards achieving your goals. It’s a great way to ensure that you’re moving in the right direction and at the right pace.

Start the new year feeling fresh

Whether you’re starting a new job, looking to advance in your current role or switch career paths, the new year presents an opportunity for fresh starts and exciting opportunities. Take advantage of your break to plan and strategise for the upcoming year. With reflection, goal-setting, and planning, you can position yourself for personal and professional growth in the year ahead.

This holistic approach to success is something we prioritise in our Career Accelerator programmes. If you’d like to learn more about what we have on offer, take a look here.

Developing strategies to manage stress at work isn’t a new concept, nor is it something everyone will practice the same way. Stress – much like creativity – is an individual experience. But it can occur more regularly in people who work in high-stakes environments, like when you’re preparing for a new campaign or product launch or dealing with changes in team structure.

Ironically, while negative situations can cause stress, so too can positive situations – like landing a promotion or onboarding a new team member. And while stress is ever-ready to take over and overwhelm you, there are methods to guard against its full effects. We’ve put together five tips to help weather the storm and stay calm when things feel crazy.

Be mindful of your triggers

Mindfulness is a modern buzzword, and for good reason – it’s actually quite helpful. Being mindful means that you’re aware of yourself in ways that keep you healthy and regulated inside and out. 

In Blink, Malcolm Gladwell argues that human beings are exceptional at pattern recognition to draw conclusions. He calls it ‘thin-slicing,’ and it relates to how humans identify and analyse patterns so quickly that we can make split-second decisions, which can be just as good as ruminating on something.

Listing your triggers in the workplace can help you develop a sense of awareness for when they invariably arise. With practice, you’ll get better at spotting them and be better prepared to respond mindfully when they arise. Common workplace stress triggers can include:

• Errors in judgement or action
• Team absenteeism
• Poor internal/managerial communication
• Moving goalposts on projects
• Constant “feedback” on your work

Create a support system

A small headache can blow up into a migraine in minutes when we find ourselves facing a problem alone. So, even though stress can make us feel alone, we can choose not to be. Find a trusted colleague to discuss the problem with, take a few minutes to call a close friend, or join a community that can help you navigate common stressors. If the problem causing you stress isn’t something a personal friend would understand, rope in a career coach or therapist to find constructive solutions that are also sustainable.

Working with a dedicated support team was something that Iryna found useful on the King’s Product Management Career Accelerator. Her Success Manager kept her accountable, and her Career Coach helped her land the exact role she was keen on. Read her story here.

Get moving!

The modern workplace is a sedentary one, and we are creatures who need a daily dose of sunlight and well-stretched muscles. Don’t underestimate the refreshing power of a walk. Simply being in nature is proven to reduce stress.  If you’ve got a problem that’s seemingly impossible to solve, going outside can offer a fresh perspective. While not everything can be resolved with a quick walk, stepping away can help you reset and feel more capable of tackling the problem at hand.

Adjust to your daily capacity

Our daily energy levels vary depending on what else we have going on at work – and in life. If your boss asks you to add ‘just one more thing’ to your already long list, practice qualifying what you say ‘yes’ to. While you may be willing to take on more work, you should also aim to bring attention to your capacity for it and how this might impact your delivery of other tasks. Saying something as simple as, “Sure, I can take that one. But what are we deprioritising so I can complete this task successfully?” can work in your favour.

While it’s normal to take one for the team and work longer hours on some days, ignoring your realistic daily capacity is a harmful practice. If you’re struggling with the load you already have, check in with your manager about adjusting your workload so you can balance the quality of work with your well-being.

Apply your strengths

The concept of ‘job crafting’ is when you apply your inherent personality traits to your work to foster professional success. Identifying your signature strengths or strongest character traits can help you create environments where you can cope better with inadvertent stress. Some strengths include:

• Integrity
• Bravery
• Open-mindedness
• Empathy
• Creativity
• Curiosity

While they may not address the root cause of your stress, using your strengths can help you learn how to manage stress at work.

Final thoughts

If you remember only one thing when you’re under pressure, make it that progress happens one step at a time. If you need support, ask for it. Coping with stress at work is always better with a solid support structure, and having friends or a career coach to help you along the way will make all the difference. 

We’ve made support an integral part of all our Career Accelerators for our learners navigating change in their careers. Whether they’re entering the job market for the first time, pivoting careers or advancing in their current roles, our dedicated team of Career Coaches and Success Managers provide the guidance and support that each individual needs. Take a look at what some past learners had to say about their experience working with a coach.

If you’re interested in learning more about our programmes, take a look at our portfolio here.

Having an ongoing impact at work requires an ongoing commitment to learning. We often see this in the workplace; the best leaders and colleagues are the ones who keep evolving and stay curious and hungry for new knowledge. 

While what you learn will always change, learning itself has and will continue to be one of the best methods for staying relevant, competitive, and impactful.

We explore the benefits of continued learning in your career, from innovation at work to industry reputation and fulfillment in your job.

Why continuous learning is linked to success

Thomas Corley did a five-year study on 200 self-made millionaires. What did they all have in common? They read two or more books per month, and not just for fun. 

Bill Gates, Elon Musk, and Jack Ma are all voracious readers, and some live by the five-hour rule of spending at least an hour a day – or five hours a work week – reading. This is a small but powerful example of how learning comes in various forms, and it’s a daily practice adopted by many business leaders.

If we take a closer look within businesses, we see that upskilling is closely related to talent recruitment, retention, job satisfaction, and earning potential.

Amazon and Gallup conducted a comprehensive survey into the benefits of upskilling. Around 66% of US workers surveyed said upskilling had raised their standard of living and quality of life. What happens if their learning continues consistently? Those workers earn, on average, 9% more than those who aren’t regularly upskilling. 

Continuous learning is also a big incentive for switching jobs; 48% of US workers would go to a new job if it offered skills training opportunities. 

What’s more, employees who have upskilled are 17% more likely to be in what they consider a good job. Gallup defines this as experiencing high levels of satisfaction across 11 dimensions of work that employees view as important, and range from stable and predictable pay to having a sense of purpose and the power to change things, enjoying day-to-day work, career advancement, and job security. 

Here are seven benefits of continued learning in your career:

1. You’ll stay relevant in a rapidly changing landscape

The technological landscape refreshes itself with new updates and innovations faster than many can adjust, creating roles that barely existed a couple of years ago. Learning will help you keep up with the pace of change, but consistent learning can take you a step further. By understanding (or even expecting) the changes afoot, you’ll be able to better preempt and prepare to leverage new technologies.

2. You’ll be able to innovate and create

Learning opens your mind to new and more creative and efficient ways of doing things, and when you couple experience with ongoing learning, it leads to innovative thinking. 

This is exactly what happened to Kelli Wingfield. She was looking for a new challenge and learning opportunity, which she found on the King’s Product Management Career Accelerator. After the first course Kelli said she was already approaching challenges differently. Six months later, she was promoted to Product and Delivery Director at her company. Read her story here.

3. It contributes to job security and career progression

Digital economy jobs are evolving, and employers estimate that 44% of worker’s skills will be disrupted in the next five years. This has created a digital skills gap, as the employment market moves towards jobs in data analysis and big data, AI and machine learning, digital marketing and strategy, and process automation. However, it’s also created an opportunity. To meet new digital demands, learning and on-the-job training will become common workplace strategies for achieving business goals. With the right company and learning experience, your career progression could go faster than you thought possible.

4. It opens up doors to networking and collaboration

A great learning experience involves networking and collaborating with peers of all ages and levels of experience. Workshops, seminars, and online forums expose you to different viewpoints and can lead to mentorship opportunities and partnerships.

5. It builds on your reputation

A willingness to continuously learn new skills – for example, a new programming language or design tool – is a great plus on your CV; it demonstrates your commitment to professional growth and industry evolution. It’s a sign that you’re self-disciplined, resilient yet flexible, and can embrace change – qualities that employers value highly. 

6. You stay ahead of AI and automation

Technologies such as AI, IoT, quantum computing, 5G, digital labour, and augmented and virtual reality will change tech professions across the board, making it important to stay ahead of these developments and be ready to jump into in-demand tech roles created by them – or to work with them. 

7. It’s personally fulfilling and keeps you intellectually engaged

Constantly engaging with new concepts, acquiring new skills, and conquering new challenges gives you a sense of achievement. Continuing to learn also keeps your brain working optimally, slowing down cognitive and memory decline. 

The best avenues for continued learning

Online education has made lifelong learning a real possibility, no matter where you live, what your day looks like, or how old you are. While there are a host of courses you can do for free, and there’s nothing wrong with watching online video tutorials, employers will always be looking for accredited courses and proof of real-world experience. These are the learning options that employers take note of:

Develop in-demand skills that last

FourthRev Career Accelerators have career development at the core of the learning model. The six-month programmes are designed by thought leaders from the world’s best universities and industry companies, such as Tableau, Bank of England, and Sky. Through the holistic learning framework, you’ll learn how to make both an immediate and lasting impact in your career, setting you up for sustainable career success and results. This is how they work.

Get your industry certifications

Whether you’re a recent graduate or a seasoned tech specialist, when tech recruiters evaluate your resume, they often start by looking at your certifications. This is because they want candidates who’ve mastered a particular technology or product, such as those created by AWS, Microsoft, or CISCO. Recruitment agency Robert Half has compiled a list of some of the most valuable IT certifications today.

Stay on top of trends and learn from the experts

Not all learning is rewarded with a certificate, but there’s still a lot to gain from attending tech conferences and workshops, listening to podcasts, following industry leaders and creative thinkers, reading blogs, and subscribing to newsletters.

Avenues for continued learning are plenty; always remember that the quality of your learning is as important as how quickly you’re able to learn it. When you get this balance right, you can feel reassured that you’re learning the right things at the right time.

Elodie Hudson’s story is one that reminds us that learning is possible at any stage of a career. After 16 years in education, Elodie decided to pursue a new career path in data analytics. The LSE Data Analytics Career Accelerator gave her the confidence and skills to transition careers. This is what she thought of the programme.

When you’re applying for jobs and being rejected, one after another, it can be really disheartening. We understand that. If you’re feeling discouraged and uncertain about your abilities, handling setbacks professionally and constructively is essential.

Here, we’ll explore some practical steps you can take when faced with job rejections. We’ll help you respond gracefully, enabling you to maintain a positive outlook throughout the job search process. Remember, it’s all part of the journey towards finding the ideal job that aligns with your skills and aspirations.

Take a deep breath and wait

Receiving a rejection email can be a punch to the gut. It’s essential not to react impulsively and give yourself time to process the news. Avoid responding immediately, as emotions may cloud your judgment. Give yourself a day or two before composing a thoughtful reply.

If you get a rejection over the phone or on a video call, keep your cool, thank the interviewer, and end the call politely. This is often hard, but responding graciously when put on the spot will show you and the interviewer that you can handle pressure.

Craft a gracious response

When responding to a rejection email, maintain professionalism and gratitude. Thank the interviewer, hiring manager, or HR manager for the opportunity to interview and express your appreciation for their time and consideration. Keep the email brief, respectful, and free of any negative emotions.

Ask for feedback

If you genuinely want to improve your chances in the future, consider politely asking for feedback on your application or interview. Emphasise your desire to grow professionally and use any insights they share with you constructively. However, be prepared not to receive a response, as some companies have policies against providing feedback.

Don’t take it personally

Remember, a job rejection doesn’t define your worth or abilities. Employers consider various factors when hiring decisions are made, and sometimes, the perfect candidate is not chosen due to circumstances beyond your control. Instead of dwelling on self-doubt, focus on your strengths and the value you can bring to the right organisation.

Reframe rejection as an opportunity

Viewing rejection as part of the learning process can be transformative. Embrace the idea that each rejection is a stepping stone towards the right opportunity. Use it as motivation to refine your skills, enhance your CV, and grow as a professional. If you receive feedback that your skills were lacking in key areas, consider upskilling.

Maintain a positive mindset

Staying positive during the job search is crucial. Surround yourself with a support network of friends, family, and fellow job seekers who can offer encouragement and understanding. Engage in activities that bring you joy and help you stay optimistic. It can be helpful to join online forums and groups where other job seekers share their trials, errors, and hard-won wisdom. It helps to know you’re not the only one going through something difficult, and it’s heartening to celebrate those whose search is over – and be celebrated when your time comes.

Learn from rejections

Instead of dwelling on the disappointment, focus on the lessons you can glean from each rejection. Immediately after each interview, write down the questions you were asked, your answers, and your interviewer’s reaction to your answers. Analyse your interview performance and identify areas for improvement. Use this feedback to enhance your interviewing skills and present yourself more effectively in future opportunities.

Network and leverage connections

Networking remains a powerful tool in the job search process. Connect with professionals in your field, attend industry events, and leverage online platforms to build meaningful relationships. Sometimes, referrals and recommendations from connections can open doors that would otherwise remain closed. Consider connecting with a Career Coach or mentor, someone who is further ahead in their career, in a position you’d like to have.

Explore career development opportunities

While you continue your job search, consider investing in career development opportunities. Enroll in workshops, webinars, micro-credentials, or online courses that can enhance your skills and marketability. Upskilling can boost your confidence and demonstrate your commitment to professional growth. If you’re experiencing a gap between one job and the next, filling that time by learning new things is both encouraging and looks good to future employers.

Embrace resilience and perseverance

Job searching can be challenging and unpredictable. Embrace resilience and perseverance as your allies. Stay dedicated to your goals and maintain a positive outlook, even when facing adversity. Remember, every rejection brings you one step closer to the perfect fit.

Get the support you need to get ahead in your career

Handling job rejections professionally is a crucial aspect of the job search process. If you’re changing careers, like Elodie did after 16 years, or looking for a job for the first time, like Aman, feeling confident in yourself and your abilities is the key to finally finding where you fit and where you can thrive.

Elodie and Aman both received support from their Career Coaches while job hunting and learning on different Career Accelerators. If you’re interested in starting afresh in your career, and having an executive coach provide you with guidance as you go, enrolling in one of our programmes might be a good option for you. Take a look at our programme portfolio, and let’s get you further in your career, faster.

We recently asked our learners what part of career advancement they find most challenging. The one that came out tops? How to develop a career strategy for launching your career.

For the professionals just starting out, this task may seem daunting. But, while you don’t have to have your whole life figured out right after graduating, putting together a plan with realistic goals will help you create a clear path. Here is our step-by-step action plan for tech career starters:

4 Steps to take in preparation for launching your career

1. Take stock of your skills and values

Now is the best time to think of your current skill set, as well as your personal values, personality, likes, and dislikes. A meaningful and sustainable career will consider and prioritise both. You can start here:

• Identify your strong (and weak) areas, what motivates you, and your personal and professional values. Personality tests like Enneagram and 16Personalities help confirm your key abilities, behaviours, and preferences.

• Narrow down the company values you’d like in a future employer. For instance, a strong company culture and policies on sustainability, diversity, flexibility, etc. Consider what your ideal workplace would look like, be it remote, hybrid, or office-based. 

• Consider finding a mentor or career coach. A career coach can give you a clear sense of direction and support you while you take steps towards starting your career – they can also help you overcome obstacles along the way. A mentor can share their experience and learnings, and explain the finer details, challenges, and rewards of an industry.

2. Plot your career goals

Setting career goals may feel overwhelming when you’re just starting out, but goals give you a sense of purpose and direction and help you prioritise, focus, and stay motivated. First, ask yourself:

• What’s important to me: A strong starting income? Good work-life balance? Job security? Collaboration? Clear growth potential?

• Use the SMART method to help you set your goals. SMART stands for specific, measurable, achievable, realistic, and timely. Mindtools has a good resource to get you started. 

• Set both short- and long-term goals, and list the steps you need to take to achieve them. It’s okay to change them as you learn and progress.
   
• Share your goals with supportive people – a friend, colleague, fellow career starter, or career coach – who can keep you accountable and encourage you to make them a reality.

3. Explore your options

After you’ve assessed your skills and created goals, it’s now time to get to grips with a potential profession and industry. This will give you a clear idea of the requirements and pathways and whether you’ll need to fill gaps through further learning. Consider these points: 

• Research job openings on sites like Indeed, Glassdoor, and LinkedIn. Note common skills (hard and soft), qualifications, responsibilities, experience, and salary ranges to get a picture of real-world requirements. 

• Compare your skills, interests, values, and personality to the requirements of the careers you’re considering. What are their similarities and differences, and can you close any gaps through learning?

• Apply for internships, do job shadowing, volunteering, and part-time work if you’re not ready to commit to a career track.

• Look to the future: what jobs are in-demand now and in the next 10 years? For instance, data analyst is the number one emerging role and is set to stay that way with companies increasingly leveraging data to drive business results. It’s also a role that has great potential for career starters; businesses mostly recruit for junior data analysts who can work their way up to earning £63k per year as a senior data analyst.

We’ve unpacked everything you need to know about the role and how you can become a data analyst in this blog.

Interested in starting one of the most in-demand careers? The LSE Data Analytics Career Accelerator is designed for ambitious career starters – like yourself – who want to gain the technical and soft skills that employers are looking for. As a career starter, you’ll benefit from: 

• Professional 1:1 coaching that can help you set personalised career goals, prepare for interviews, and navigate salary negotiations.
• Practical experience in the six-week Employer Project that tackles a real-world business challenge set by a company.
• A certificate from LSE that companies around the world recognise and respect.
• A portfolio of work that will differentiate you from your peers, and serves as practical proof of your skills and experience.

4. Take action

You’ve got the foundation, now it’s time to land your first job:

Start networking

Networking builds your social capital, helps you find opportunities, and keeps you up to date with the latest industry trends. Learn strategies with our guide on networking.

Craft your CV 

Before you get started, here are five tips from an industry expert to make your CV stand out. Lead with your education and list any internships or volunteer work. Try to keep it to one page and highlight the skills and qualifications most relevant to the job you’re applying for. 

Build your LinkedIn profile

Recruiters flock to LinkedIn to find new talent. Follow the platform’s checklist to be discovered and establish a personal brand based on your experience, competencies, personality, and achievements. 

Prepare for interviews

Here are five tips for interview prep and some top interview advice from one of our career coaches. If you’re applying for a technical role, you’ll likely need to do a technical interview where you’ll be asked to do a live code challenge or work out a tech problem. 

Be the clear choice

The tech industry is fast-paced and ever-changing and comes with an important caveat: it’s critical that you match the pace of change without sacrificing your quality of learning. 

FourthRev Career Accelerator’s are project-based and strategically designed to deliver in-demand skills that last.  

Whether you’re just starting out, switching paths, or need to learn new skills to futureproof your career, Fourthrev programmes can meet you where you’re at and ensure that you become the clear choice for that next opportunity. View our programme portfolio.