Have you ever been asked what your plans are in five years? It's a most often heard question during interviews and one-on-one coaching. But most employees don't actually have a plan. Employees are always unsure of how to respond. Fortune explains that it is not the lack of drive or imagination. It was rather a lack of knowledge.
In order for employees to answer that question, they need to plot their future carefully with information. This information is crucial and involves the people, resources and forces that will help shape his or her future. The post explains that many Americans imagine the future based on what the present looks like. However, today's time has increased employee's awareness. There is so much information out there that will be advantageous for the employee.
An employee can start planning his five-year course with a Mentor, for example. Or employees can undergo a development and training program that companies often offer. Whatever career trajectory is chosen, remember that there are four keys that contribute to the success. These are: purpose, transparency, experimentation, and most importantly, opportunity.
A purpose is needed to think about the bigger picture. What will empower the individual. Opportunity is a core value that will help visualize the future within the organization. Transparency is needed in the workplace because it is a means of clear communication. It gives real insight to internal growth and development. Experimentation is a means for employees to see what other opportunities they can find that would inflame their passion. They need to explore what is out and in there. Lastly, opportunity is necessary for growth to flourish. Without opportunities, there will be little to no mobility in the employee's growth and potential.
Do you already have a five year plan? Tell us how that worked for you in the comments section.
