I’ve been thinking a lot recently about the importance of three things: a positive mental attitude, a willingness to embrace change and the need to take a balanced, medium- or long-term view of the world around us.

There’s been so much going on out there – and negative news has been easy to find.

Sometimes it’s worth taking the time to look below the surface, then step back and take in the broader picture. And I do like to put a positive spin on things!

Let’s talk about Brexit

In today’s ever-changing market, companies have no choice but to evolve. In times of change, employers rely on forward-thinking, solution-focused employees. Those who contribute to their organization beyond the job description are considered value added employees. They impact the organization in meaningful ways and become indispensable to the company’s success. They are open to change and new information and act on the new knowledge gained.

Think of yourself as a lifelong learner

Industry 4.0 has now given way to “Business 4.0,” the current global business environment generated by the technologies of the Fourth Industrial Revolution. Business 4.0 extends beyond the industrial sector to encompass all sectors, from financial and professional services to health care and consumer goods. So great is its influence, Business 4.0 is reshaping the roles that make up the executive ranks within organizations around the world.

We're proud to announce the release of our newest report, The BlueSteps 2019 Executive Career Outlook, currently available to BlueSteps members. The report features insights from over 1,400 senior management professionals globally to help you grow your career. 

Similar to relationships, finding the right match in work is critical. There is more to ensuring your professional satisfaction than landing a job that fits your professional aspirations. Cultural fit is a significant factor in the success and contributions you bring to a company.

The first step in ensuring your success in an organization is to conduct your research prior to the interview. There are many resources available to help you make this assessment, starting with the company’s overall website: check any videos, employee testimonials, social media content, mission statement, community involvement, publicity/press releases, and related content. Note how it “feels” to you overall. What’s the impression you are taking away from your visit to their site?

When discussing cultural differences, we tend to think in terms of national culture. Culture, however, goes beyond nationality and is referred to as “the pattern of beliefs, behaviors, and values maintained by groups of interacting people.” (Milton J. Bennett, Ph.D). This implies that there are several types of culture: regional, gender, religion, professional, corporate and generational.

This is an excerpt of BlueSteps' guide Your Executive Guide to Joining a Board of Directors.

While executives know board positions are great professional opportunities, many still shy away from adding one to their career plan because they find the strenuous selection process daunting or worry about the time commitment of serving on a board. These are fair considerations, but the challenges are well outweighed by the experiences and professional growth it can provide. As you decide whether a board role is right for you, consider the following benefits serving on a Board of Directors will give you.

1. Expand Your Network

Did you ever think to yourself… “Been in my industry what seems a life time, too many years in my current position, I’ve been there, I’ve done that?”

Or have you suddenly and unexpectedly found yourself between jobs? Perhaps fired, cut from the payroll but still a family to take care of? Or at best, you called it quits yourself?

If it’s been longer than 5 years since you’ve dipped your toes in the job search waters, it’s important to understand that some key components of the job hunt have changed. As an Executive Resume Writer, I can attest that there’s more to it than refreshing your resume (even if you have your resume professionally written), making sure your LinkedIn is current (although that’s certainly an important part of it), and scouring online job boards.

In fact, spending most of your time applying online can land you in the ATS (applicant tracking system) black hole— from which many resumes never return. Not only will you walk away incredibly frustrated, it will likely prolong your job search.