50. 10 Lessons for Career Progression I Wish I Learned Earlier

CAREER LESSONS — SECRETS OF THE CORPORATE GAME — EPISODE 50

Have you ever wondered what career lessons could have accelerated your growth? In today’s episode of Secrets of the Corporate Game, Kendall Berg unveils 10 crucial career progression lessons that every professional should know. Kendall dives into strategies for self-advocacy, mastering leadership skills, and effective communication that can set you apart in any organization. She explains how to build a powerful network, advocate for yourself, and ensure your achievements are recognized. Whether you’re aiming to advance or redefine your career path, these actionable tips will equip you with the tools to elevate your success and make a lasting impact.

How to Become the Leader You Wish You Had

Great leadership isn’t just handed to you—it’s earned, built, and practiced with intention. Let’s face it, most companies drop the ball when it comes to training effective leaders. The reality? It could take over a decade before managers even receive their first formal training. But here’s the kicker: even when that training happens, it often misses the mark. The real secrets to leadership lie in self-driven growth—reading, mentorship, and relentless learning.

Kendall breaks down why leadership is a skill you must actively build if you want to succeed. The difference between thriving under a great boss and feeling lost with a bad one can make or break your career. Ready to step up and lead with intention? This deep dive into leadership principles might be the push you need.

Why Your Boss Alone Can’t Make or Break Your Career

Doing a great job isn’t enough—you need to make sure others know about it too. Self-advocacy is key, but focusing only on your direct boss is a common trap. Yes, your boss is vital to your success, but they’re just one piece of the puzzle. When it’s time for performance reviews, relying solely on your boss’s praise isn’t going to cut it.

To truly advance, you need a network of advocates who see your value across the board. Think of it as your career ‘roadshow’—showcasing your contributions to multiple stakeholders, from your boss’s peers to higher-ups. Building broader support requires strategic visibility, and this section dives deep into why self-advocacy needs to extend beyond your immediate supervisor if you want to accelerate your career.

Episode’s Takeaways

🎯 Self-Advocacy and Career Development (00:00 – 09:39)

• Advocate for yourself in your career
• Your boss is not your only advocate; build broader support
• Don’t be afraid to ask questions, regardless of seniority
• Always be learning new skills and tricks
• Give credit to others when they help you

📈 Building Relationships and Personal Brand (09:39 – 18:01)

• Don’t be afraid to stand up for yourself professionally
• You have control over your personal brand
• Building and maintaining a network is crucial for career success
• Give credit to others and take credit when appropriate
• Proactively inform your boss about your work and contributions

🔨 Leadership and Management Skills (18:01 – 27:03)

• Great leadership is key to career progression
• Most managers don’t receive proper training
• Seek out leadership resources and mentorship
• Firing underperforming employees is sometimes necessary
• Poor performers can negatively impact the entire team

🚀 Communication and Career Advancement (27:03 – 36:38)

• Your boss and colleagues often don’t know what you’re working on
• Communicate your work, achievements, and impact regularly
• Understand others’ priorities when requesting assistance
• Recap of 10 Key Lessons for Career Advancement
• Apply these lessons to propel your career forward

Watch on YouTube

That Career Coach

Want to know more about Kendal Berg, that career coach?

Follow her on Instagram: @thatcareercoach_

Check out her courses on the website: https://thatcareercoach.net/

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