Being in vacation-mode can make you more productive, but oftentimes things slow down during summer as people around the office head out on trips. This allows for unique opportunities that can help you get ahead and move closer to your One Thing.
Five Steps For Summer Work That Will Move Your Career Forward
This summer could be the perfect time to pick up a little extra work that goes a long way to getting you closer to your dream job. Sure, a summer job might put some extra money in your pocket, but the bigger payoff could be in the experience you gain. Here are a few suggestions for how to make your summer super productive.
- Use the time to plot your path to success – When things are a little more relaxed at work it could be the perfect time to plan your One Thing and start implementing the steps that will get you there. Make it your summer job to identify your goals, find your niche, and fill out your first GPS and 4-1-1.
- Create a new good habit – On average it takes 66 days to create a new habit, which is perfect timing for the summer. Figure out a habit that will move your career a step ahead and take on a 66-Day Challenge to establish it.
- Time block for the summer project – The last thing you want to do is take on extra work that you don’t have time for. If you’re stretched too thin nothing will get the time and attention it deserves. Time-block your days to increase productivity and fit a side job into your schedule before you take on extra work.
- Look for work that’s rewarding – Instead of just accepting any work you can get, seek out a job that offers more than a supplemental income. It can be something that makes you better in your field, supports a cause you’re passionate about or that you simply find enjoyable. Rest assured, employers take note of employees who show initiative.
- Jump in on a project – People are taking summer vacations, but the business doesn’t take a day off. When people are in and out of the office it can have a detrimental impact on the progress of projects. If you know that one or two people will be away, offer to fill in for them while they are on vacation. This is especially helpful if you’re trying to break into a new department, network with more coworkers or gain insight on a particular process. When you volunteer to help fill in where needed there’s a good chance you’ll be considered for a permanent spot on the next project.
- Take advantage of the service industry summer influx –There’s a lot more to the service industry than serving tables. The summer months are often some of the busiest times in hotels and restaurants, which can create a need for help company-wide including marketing, management and product areas. It’s an excellent industry to tap for summertime opportunities that expand your resume.
With all these summer plans in the works for growing your career, it’s important to remember to counterbalance as well. One way to ensure that you are getting the most out of a productive summer is to take the necessary personal time to re-energize yourself along the way. This way, you’ll be at full battery power as you continue on your path towards extraordinary success.
What are you doing to ensure this summer is your most productive one yet?
Original Source: http://www.the1thing.com/applying-the-one-thing/why-youre-never-too-old-for-a-summer-job/