I want to dive into a topic that many professionals ponder. What do I need to do to secure the job I want?
In today's challenging economic climate, where the oil & gas sector faces various uncertainties, professionals need to adapt to thrive. One key strategy for survival in this industry is being multi-skilled.
The oil & gas industry is highly susceptible to fluctuations in global markets, geopolitical tensions, and environmental concerns. To withstand these challenges, professionals must possess a broad range of expertise as well as increasing value as an employee in other ways.
When it comes to advancing in your career, it's perhaps natural to seek out additional qualifications. Higher degrees, certifications and specialised training can certainly enhance your skill set and increase your worth as an employee. However, it's essential to recognise that qualifications alone may not guarantee a promotion. Going the extra mile can make all the difference.
Here are my top tips for being in the best position you can to secure that promotion:
1. Demonstrate Initiative
Employers value employees who take the initiative to go beyond their job description. Showcasing a proactive attitude, taking on additional responsibilities, and seeking opportunities to contribute beyond expectations can set you apart from others who are solely focused on acquiring qualifications.
2. Develop Soft Skills
Skills like leadership, communication, adaptability and problem-solving are highly sought after in a competitive job market. Cultivating these skills can make you a well-rounded professional and increase your chances of securing a promotion.
3. Show Results
Organisations often promote employees who can consistently deliver results. Going above and beyond your current job description means exceeding performance expectations, consistently meeting or surpassing targets, and making a tangible impact on the success of your team and the organisation as a whole.
4. Seek Growth Opportunities
Actively seeking growth opportunities within your organisation can demonstrate your ambition and commitment to personal and professional development. Take advantage of training programmes, mentorships, networking events and challenging assignments to expand your knowledge and skills. By doing so, you position yourself as a valuable asset to the company.
5. Assess Industry Trends
Stay up to date with the latest industry trends, including technological advancements, renewable energy initiatives and developments, and regulatory changes. Understanding the direction in which the industry is heading will help you identify the skills that will be in demand and shape your multi-skilling strategy accordingly.
6. Identify Skill Gaps
Analyse your current skill set and identify areas where you can expand and diversify. Look for gaps that need to be filled to meet the evolving needs of the industry. This could include technical skills, project management expertise, digital literacy, or knowledge of emerging technologies.
7. Seek Training and Development Opportunities
Pursue training and development programmes that align with the skills you want to acquire. This could involve enrolling in specialised courses, attending workshops, earning certifications, or participating in industry conferences. Leverage both online and offline resources to enhance your knowledge base.
8. Embrace Cross-Functional Collaboration
Engage with professionals from different disciplines within the oil & gas and offshore energy sectors. Seek opportunities to collaborate on projects or join cross-functional teams. This will expose you to different perspectives, enhance your understanding of various aspects of the industry, and enable you to develop a holistic skill set.
9. Cultivate Transferable Skills
Identify skills that are transferable across different roles and sectors within the industry. These might include communication, problem-solving, design analysis, leadership, project management, client delivery and analytical thinking. Building such skills will enhance your versatility and make you an asset in a rapidly changing environment.
10. You Be You
Let your personality shine through as you do what you do to improve your versatility. By being multi-skilled, you increase your adaptability and resilience in the face of economic challenges. It enables you to diversify your career options within the industry and opens up opportunities in emerging sectors. Embrace continuous learning, stay agile, and be proactive in acquiring the skills necessary to thrive in the ever-evolving energy sector.
In summary, do look to secure additional and transferable skills, especially those that support cross-functional collaboration. However, it's essential to complement these skills with a proactive mindset, soft skill development, tangible results, and a thirst for growth. Strive to exceed expectations, take on additional responsibilities, enjoy what you do, and consistently demonstrate your value to your team and organisation.
Embrace a holistic approach to your professional growth, and success will be within reach!
What steps have you taken to develop a diverse skill set and increase your value as a colleague?