(NC) It’s hard to avoid the popular phrase “new year, new you” when reflecting on the past and making plans for the year ahead. Whether striving for personal or professional growth, it is a good time to embrace change.

Career development and renewed commitment to achieving professional goals can be a daunting process, one that many of us are unsure how to start. Whether you’re looking to kick-start your career or make a shift to a new role, here are three career-boosting tips to get you on the right track.

Make networking a priority. Whether you’re just starting your career or are a seasoned professional, networking benefits everyone. While there are a million reasons why you might brush off a networking event, regular networking can help you reach your career goals and introduce you to people with common interests. It will give you an edge over your peers and can help get you get where you want to go, sometimes even faster. 

Find a mentor. When looking for a mentor, consider programs that match people based on their career interests. But don’t overlook the value of colleagues, family and friends pointing you in the right direction. What’s crucial in this process is finding someone who is invested in helping you achieve your goals. A mentor can be invaluable, both at the start of your career and when looking to advance professionally.

Consider continued learning opportunities. Ongoing learning is essential for career growth. When contemplating a post-graduate program, the first step is to determine if it aligns with your aspirations. The Graduate Diploma in Business at Smith School of Business at Queen’s University is designed to broaden career opportunities and open doors that would not be available otherwise. The four-month summer program builds the fundamental business skills needed to succeed in today’s competitive job market and expands on the soft skills that complement today’s workforce.

Find more information at ssb.ca/gdb.