Mandy Smith, Founder & CEO, Mandy Smith Consulting
In today’s rapidly evolving financial services landscape, intentional career development has never been more important. As a credit union professional, you are uniquely positioned in an industry that values both professional growth and member service. Whether you’re new or more seasoned, creating a clear career path can help you maximize your potential while contributing to your credit union’s success.
Here’s how to take charge of your career and start building the future you want.
Steps to Building Your Career Path
Step 1: Where Do You Want to Go?
Take time to consider where you want your path to take you.
- Which aspects of your current role energize you the most?
- What areas of the industry interest you?
- What do you want to learn more about?
- What roles or departments align with your strengths and aspirations?
- What impact do you want to make in your career?
Tip: Also, think about your “why.” Why do you want to go down this path? Why is it important to you? This can be great to write down and revisit when things get challenging.
Step 2: Seek Guidance and Support
You don’t have to do this alone. Identify and reach out to people who can help you.
- Meet with your manager and share your goals. Ask for their support.
- Ask for feedback on areas you should develop as you work your career path.
- Seek out mentors who can share industry insights.
- Connect with colleagues in other departments to learn more about their areas.
- Consider joining professional organizations for networking opportunities.
Tip: When you meet with your manager, frame it as “I want to grow within our organization.” This clarity reassures them that you don’t have one foot out the door.
Step 3: Look Within Your Organization
Explore resources that are available to you.
- What internal development programs could help prepare you for your next career step?
- Are there training classes you can attend or online courses you can take?
- Are there opportunities to earn a certification that is aligned with your goals?
- What special projects can you volunteer for?
Tip: If there aren’t formal opportunities, discuss more informal options with your manager. Job shadowing or informational interviews with people in different areas can be helpful.
Step 4: Research Opportunities
Be curious! Learn all you can about your credit union and the industry.
- Keep an eye on your credit union’s job postings. This can be a great way to learn more about different roles and the required skills or certifications.
- Explore the website and intranet to learn more about other departments, products or services.
- Utilize publications, associations and leagues that provide industry information.
- Follow thought leaders on LinkedIn.
Tip: Talk to colleagues in roles that interest you to learn about their career journeys and daily responsibilities.
Step 5: Develop Skills and Knowledge
Take all you have learned and map out your plan, so you are prepared when you find a great opportunity.
- Identify the gap between your current skills and those required in your dream job.
- Create a learning plan that addresses the technical and professional (sometimes referred to as “soft”) skills you need to develop or strengthen.
- Identify the resources that will help develop these skills.
Tip: Review this with your manager. They may be able to identify anything you missed and make you aware of additional resources.
Step 6: Take Initiative
Don’t wait for opportunities to find you—create them.
- Work on your learning plan.
- Volunteer for projects that stretch your abilities.
- Request and take on additional duties that align with the areas where you want to grow.
- Reach out to people to learn more about other areas of the organization.
Tip: Document your contributions and achievements. They are easy to forget over time, and you will want them at the ready when you are applying for that dream job.
Step 7: Review and Adjust Regularly
Your career path should be flexible. Life, interests and priorities sometimes change. Periodically review your career path and adjust as needed so it can continue to serve as your roadmap to your next big gig!
Tip: Put a reminder on your calendar so you don’t forget to revisit and update if needed.
Your Path to Success
A thoughtful approach to career development benefits both you and your credit union. By taking charge of your professional growth, you position yourself to make meaningful contributions while building a fulfilling career. The key is to start today and stay focused. Every great journey starts with a single step. Take yours and make it count!
If you want to learn more, feel free to reach out to Mandy Smith at mandy@mandysmithconsulting.com