How to Fast Track Your Career Ahead of Your Peers: A Proven Strategy

Fast tracking your career means reaching your professional goals quicker than your peers. It’s not about retiring early or getting to the top of the corporate pyramid at an unusually young age. It’s about achieving meaningful success and advancement in your chosen field. The key lies in planning backwards, starting with defining your ultimate goals and understanding how to get there.

Think 60 First, Then Plan Backwards

Imagine where you want to be in 10 years. Picture yourself as the Managing Director at 55 or the CEO at 45. Once you have that vision in mind, work backwards to determine the steps you need to take to get there. This strategic approach, often called ‘think 60 first, then plan backwards’, ensures that you have a clear roadmap for success.

What is Fasttrack?

Fasttrack refers to reaching your career objectives faster than expected. It doesn’t mean retiring early; instead, it means achieving your professional goals at a more accelerated pace. A classic example is someone who aims to become a CEO at 45, while their peers might achieve the same title at 50.

Building a Successful Career

Your career success should be your primary goal, not just a means to an end. Plan for a long-term career trajectory that includes roles like Managing Director at 55, COO at 50, and CEO at 45. Recognize that career success is about making a meaningful impact, not just acquiring titles.

Strategic Entry-Level Roles

Start your career with an entry-level position that allows you to observe experienced professionals. Engage with your peers and seek mentorship. This observation period is crucial in understanding the landscape and learning from seasoned professionals.

Powerful Mentorship

Successful careers often begin with a powerful mentor. I’ve had mentors during two different careers, guiding me through various challenges and opportunities. Begin your journey by taking an entry-level role where you can observe those at the peak of their careers. Some may even be kind enough to give you pointers.

The Role of Internships and Experiential Learning

Internships are powerful tools in your career development. They provide you with both a degree and real-world experience. When I graduated from college, I had a degree in one hand and four years of industry experience in the other. This combination has been instrumental in my career progression. My opportunities often came through networking with successful individuals.

Evaluating Career Goals

To determine how to fast track your career, start by clearly defining your career progression goals. Are you looking for better designations, releasing new products, earning more money, taking on more responsibility, or learning more? Understanding what success means to you will make it easier to align your actions with your goals.

Impactful Contributions to Revenue

A significant revenue impact is often the key to fast-tracking your career. Identify which of the above goals can help you make a substantial contribution to your company’s revenue. Whether it’s leading a project, spearheading innovation, or expanding your market, find opportunities that align with these goals.

Continuous Improvement and Opportunities

To consistently make a significant impact, you need to continuously improve your skills and be proactive in seeking opportunities. This requires constant learning and development. Stay updated with the latest industry trends and technologies to ensure your skills remain relevant and valuable.

In conclusion, fast tracking your career requires a clear vision, strategic planning, and a commitment to continuous improvement. By focusing on meaningful goals and making a substantial impact, you can achieve rapid career advancement. All the best on your professional journey!