Ready to Move Ahead?

Present a positive role model. Take a good look at the image you project.

Recognize the value of the whole person. There’s more to success than the number of hours billed or promotions earned. Balance your professional and personal goals. Take advantage of flexible work arrangements that allow you to succeed in all of life’s arenas.

Open the door to networking and professional development opportunities. Participate in programs that expand your skill set. Attend networking events to develop relationships that may yield potential clients or opportunities.

Make the most of your mentoring relationships. Look for a mentor who is a good listener, understands what it takes to get ahead, recognizes individual strengths and weaknesses and is a good coach. If you possess these skills, volunteer yourself.

Offer to get involved in critical projects. Successful professionals seek out high-visibility, mission-critical projects that bring recognition. Don’t limit yourself to routine work; take a risk.

Take your ideas to the top. How many times have you had an idea for a way to improve things in your organization? Accountants are natural problem-solvers. Propose your ideas to the leadership team.

Enjoy yourself. Don’t spend time regretting your choices or feeling guilty. If you decide to reduce your hours and work part-time, don’t worry about the time you are away. If you choose to spend time with family, make the most of it. Cherish your friends, love your family, enjoy your hobbies and take care of yourself. Your career is one part of your life, but it’s not the only way to define your success.

—Nancy R. Baldiga, CPA, associate professor and chair,
department of economics, College of the Holy Cross, Worcester, Mass.