Whether you are content in your current position, or searching for a new opportunity, one thing is for certain: You should always be managing your career for the best results. Below are three lessons to help you achieve that goal:

Lesson #1: Network strategically.

Strategic networking is networking with a defined goal and a strategy to achieve that goal. For instance, if your goal is to move up in your company, then you will want to network with those in management who can help you accomplish that goal. Outside your company, you should also be building relationships with those who can serve as mentors, giving you advice and guidance that is key to helping you advance your career. If, on the other hand, you are looking for a new opportunity elsewhere, clearly your goal and strategy would be different.

Keep in mind: Relationships are not built in a two-minute conversation. Rather, they are forged over time. And your best use of that time is to try to build strong ties with high quality contacts, rather then trying to connect with as many people as possible.

Lesson #2: Create a higher profile.

As leading Sacramento executive recruiters, Pacific Staffing can tell you the better you can market yourself, the further you will go in your career. One way to do that is to develop a reputation as an industry innovator or thought leader.

How can you enhance your profile? In many different ways, such as seeking out and accepting leadership positions in either professional associations, or community organizations. Another way to build your reputation in your field is by getting published in renowned industry publications and blogs, as well as securing a spot as a speaker at tradeshows and conferences.

You can’t create a high profile overnight. But with diligence, hard work and top-notch industry insight, you can build a solid image as an in-demand executive.

Lesson #3: Pay it forward.

There are likely people who have helped you get where you are in your career. Now it’s time to pay it forward and assist the people you know in propelling their own careers through mentoring, volunteering, or connecting them with new job opportunities. This is a great way to not only help others, but also enhance your own network. You’ll also build plenty of good will and positive career karma in the process.

If part of your short-term career management strategy is to find a new job opportunity in the near future, call Pacific Staffing. Our Sacramento executive recruiters have years of experience connecting executive-level candidates with top jobs throughout the area.

Contact us today to learn more.