You don’t need to wait for Monday, next month, or the new year to start or refresh your career. But we understand, it can be a daunting task. Starting a new career, advancing the one you’re already established in, or taking on a whole new role is a big deal. Here are 10 tips for each stage of your career.
Advice for starting out in the feedlot industry
1. Discover what your career will look like
Everyone wants a fulfilling career but no path is without challenges. You can do a deep dive into the ins and outs of your chosen career path by applying for graduate or trainee programs, heading up networking events, or attending industry conferences.
➡️ Explore all areas of the feedlot operation.
2. Be an information sponge
Embracing a beginner’s outlook is an important part of career development. Ask questions, get to know people in different feedlot departments and try job shadowing someone in a role you’re less familiar with to see what’s out there.
3. Navigate network opportunities
If the mere mention of “networking” makes you wince, fear not. There’s more to networking than name tags and small talk. As you progress in your career, it’s important to kickstart your networking skills. Business networks are an invaluable asset that will take you far in your career.
➡️ Not sure where to start? A one-day course on the art of creating and maintaining strong and far-reaching professional networks could be the ticket.
Tips for advancing your lotfeeding career
4. Communicate with management
First and foremost, do away with the notion that management is unapproachable and intimidating. Every feedlot employee plays an important role in the business and your contribution is valued. Communicating with management is crucial for your career to advance. So, if you’re seeking more responsibility, a change in duties, or continuing feedback, consider management as a huge resource.
➡️ Keep communication flowing so management can give you what you want such as scholarships or awards that recognise excellence, and any professional development opportunities that tickle your fancy.
5. Broaden your skillset
The best thing about identifying gaps in your knowledge is that you can then take measures to fill in the blanks with the required skills. This can seem daunting but leveling up is often just a matter of starting.
➡️Here is a comprehensive round-up of videos and courses designed to boost your skill set.
6. Forward planning is key
As soon as you hit the workforce, it’s likely you began honing in on what you want out of your career – and what doesn’t align with your ethos or skill set. Use this knowledge to craft your career and where you want it to go. Keep this in mind when mapping out your career (something you want to do at least once a year, ideally twice).
➡️ Learn how to continually improve your career.
7. Stay on your toes
The time will come when you feel like you’ve got a good handle on your role. You’re confident, you’re competent, people look to you for advice and knowledge. But don’t take your foot off the pedal. Where is the future of your industry going? What are people saying? What are studies revealing?
➡️ Stay on your A-game by upskilling or by taking leaps to make leaps and bounds in your career.
Advice for changing jobs
8. Do your research
Whether you’re a fresh face in the lotfeeding industry or you’re an old (experienced) hat going for your tenth role, it’s important to know the lay of the land. Research salary brackets, industry forecasts, and any formal programs available that relate to the skill set you will require.
➡️ Job seekers need to stay up-to-date on lotfeeding training, education and career opportunities.
9. Be brave
Before you start the new job search, be definite about what you’re on the hunt for. Is it an increased salary? Is it more opportunities to further your career?
Keep those goals front and centre as you navigate job opportunities and stay true to what you want.
➡️ Current jobs available in the feedlot industry.
10. Bust a move (sideways is fine)
Promotions are shiny and exciting but a lateral move in your company shouldn’t be underestimated either. If you’re feeling a bit bogged down, taking on a new role in a different feedlot department is a great chance to learn new skills and shake things up.
