Jumping into a new job can be exciting, especially when it comes with a higher salary or the chance to pursue your dream role. But how do you ensure that each move aligns with your long-term career goals? At ROUSSOS, we recently polled professionals on their expectations when switching jobs: Most expect a pay rise, yet many would move to their dream job even with a lower salary. These responses reflect the importance of having a well-thought-out career plan to guide decisions. Here’s how you can craft a 5-year plan to ensure your next move is the right one.
Step 1: Define Your Long-Term Career Vision
Start by asking yourself where you want to be in five years. Think about:
The type of role you aim to have.
The level of responsibility and leadership you want.
The industries or companies that excite you. Your vision doesn’t need to be set in stone, but it should provide direction. This will help you prioritise what matters most—whether it’s salary, job satisfaction, or career advancement.
Step 2: Assess Your Current Skills and Identify Gaps
Take an honest look at your current skillset. What are your strengths? What skills do you need to develop to reach your 5-year goal? This might involve:
Gaining more technical expertise.
Developing leadership or project management skills.
Expanding your professional network. By understanding where the gaps lie, you can prioritise roles or opportunities that help bridge them.
Step 3: Set Measurable Short-Term Goals
Your 5-year career plan should include achievable short-term goals that guide you towards your long-term vision. These might include:
Taking on specific projects at your current job.
Pursuing further education or certifications.
Expanding your portfolio or network. Short-term goals create a clear pathway to success, making it easier to evaluate whether a new job opportunity will help you progress.
Step 4: Evaluate New Opportunities Based on Your Plan
When considering a new role, weigh how it aligns with your 5-year plan. While a pay rise may be appealing, it’s crucial to consider the long-term impact on your career. Ask yourself:
Will this role provide the experience and skills I need?
Does it offer room for growth in the next few years?
How does it contribute to my long-term career vision? By staying focused on your long-term goals, you can avoid making decisions based solely on short-term gains.
Step 5: Balance Salary with Career Fulfillment
Our polls revealed that many professionals are willing to take a lower salary for their dream job.
This highlights the importance of balancing financial needs with career fulfillment. A higher salary is important, but so is working in a role that brings satisfaction and aligns with your values. When crafting your career plan, be open to compromises that serve your long-term interests, even if they involve short-term financial adjustments.
Crafting a 5-year career plan is key to ensuring that each job move contributes to your overall growth and success. By setting clear goals, identifying skill gaps, and evaluating opportunities based on long-term objectives, you can make considered decisions that enhance your career, whether or not they come with an immediate pay rise.