An opportunity is whatever takes you directly or indirectly to your next level. Here are some types of opportunities to create or look out for:
Foundation builders: These are opportunities that grow you. They help you develop depth and breadth through diverse skills or deepening expertise. Don’t rush to move up the corporate ladder. Sometimes a side move can help expand your competencies across functions, organisations or even roles. When you strengthen foundations, nothing is wasted.
Open doors: It’s always advisable to get as much exposure as possible early in your career. Open doors can come through mentors, sponsors, strong relationships with people and no doubt, a track record of success. You need to be performing at the top end of your current level to increase chances of benefiting from any doors that open. Make sure your skills are sharp so when you get the opportunity you can perform.
Stepping stones: Stepping stones are strategic moves towards where you want to be. These may not be your first choice, but it’s a good idea to take an opportunity because it will take you a step closer to where you want to go.
Leap frogs: Sometimes you get comfortable, coasting and expecting to take small steps towards where you want to go. But others may notice your potential and ask you to do things that are a clear leap above where you are which you hadn’t even considered. It may be a sign that others are seeing capacity in you that you may be unaware of. Now take action: Identify what kind of opportunity you need to get to your next level.
