Culpwrit

By Gloria Martinez

Does it seem as if you’re spending too long on the same rung, trying to climb the ladder of success? Anyone can get stuck in a rut, but sometimes a simple change can rejuvenate your prospects. Here’s how women in public relations can breathe new life into their careers when it otherwise seems they are stagnating.  

What’s Considered Normal?  

Sometimes, when envisioning a career path, it’s difficult to see if you’re on a standard ascent, or if you are lingering too long in the same place and doing the same things. Is it time to chase a promotion, look for a new employer, or rethink your career altogether? For those working in public relations, Princeton Review points out that there is a fairly routine timeline most people’s careers follow. Your first few years tend to be administrative in nature, compiling and organizing data. Within about five years, however, you should be doing more hands-on work, such as creating press releases and providing more input into campaigns. After a decade, work tends toward managerial duties without hands-on responsibilities.    

Think Like a Boss  

When it feels as if you aren’t going anywhere in your job, it could be time to cut the apron strings. Experts at Forbes say that there are sure signs indicating you’re ready to become an entrepreneur, such as seeing opportunities for improvement but being met with resistance or a role that limits your chances to exercise your ideas and talents.  

Timing could be especially providential if you’re already established in a side gig. If you have particular expertise, perhaps it’s time to become a consultant, bringing your insights to other businesses to help them prosper. Or, perhaps you have a business concept you are ready to develop to fruition. Think through your options, and if you require a financial jumpstart, a loan could be just the ticket. Explore small business loan options, such as a startup business loan if your credit is good, an equipment loan for outfitting your home office, or a business line of credit. If you wouldn’t qualify for a traditional bank loan, you still have options available to you, such as an SBA loan or a short-term business loan.    

Toot Your Horn  

Do you love your company but feel your talents are being overlooked? In a perfect world, your hard work, abilities, and accomplishments would never go unnoticed, but the reality is your supervisors are likely quite busy. Go the extra mile to ensure they can’t miss what a gem you are. Speak up at meetings, be aware of your presence on social media, and ensure you get credit when you have a great idea. Put together a quintessential portfolio, hook up with an appropriate mentor, and consider scheduling a meeting with your supervisor to discuss boosting your responsibilities and to review your strengths. Being your own career advocate is crucial to ensure advancement, so don’t be shy about your worthiness.    

Spread Your Wings  

If you aren’t quite ready to go out on your own, but staying in the same place isn’t helping you bloom, searching for the next employer could be in your best interest. US News points out that a new work environment can refresh your skills, helping to keep your game up to snuff, stretch you, and inspire you to learn new things. Prepare carefully so you’ll have your pick of job opportunities. Spruce up your portfolio and resume; draft a cover letter that highlights your skills, experiences, and accolades; and review common interview questions so you will be ready.    

If your career is in need of a shot in the arm, you have some options. Consider going out on your own, approaching your supervisor for a promotion, or moving on to a place where you will prosper. Climbing the ladder of success can be challenging, but when you achieve the next goal in your PR career, it will all be worth it!

 Gloria Martinez started WomenLed to celebrate women’s achievements in the workplace in order to increase the number of women-led corporations, organizations and small businesses by educating others about “women led” achievements.