Does Your Career Need a Tune-Up?

Many drivers take their cars in for service only when something goes wrong.

It's the same with teeth. If they don't hurt, many people figure, why see a dentist? This approach, of course, is all wrong.

If you treat your career the same way, something may well go wrong or worse. Is it time for a check-up and a tune-up?

Check Up

Everybody knows you should brush and floss your teeth daily. But how many of us actually do it?

That's why some people need check-ups more often than those who actually do the daily maintenance. It's also why some people end up needing crowns, root canals, and extractions.

Unless you plan to do a Tom Hanks-style deserted-island dental procedure, check yourself regularly. The same applies to your career.

Review and update your resume. Then look in the mirror and ask yourself: "Is this where you want to be?"

Tune Up

If your career has stalled -- like a car -- you may need more than a tune-up. Henry DeVries, writing for Forbes, says too many people try to coast on past accomplishments.

"Do you really want to have your clients think you're out of tune before you notice it yourself?" he asks. "Do you want your customers starting to look at other options because your service has slipped imperceptibly?"

DeVries, a business writer and speaker, says to give your career a tune-up every six months. Here's a three-point inspection:

• Check to see if your skills are up to date
• Restock your professional reading
• Attend professional associations

Over time, you'll get a lot more mileage and smiles out of your career.

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