Have an interim position? Between us, admit it: this job is not your career victory.  Think strategy; how can you advance your position from where you are? If your situation is not perfect, what can you do to advance your interest? 

Karen worked for a small company for less than a year.  She was much smarter than the rest of the support team, her bright personality and readiness to adapt to new situations made her stand out. After eight months on the job, she disclosed her secret, she had recently finished law school, and was working on her acceptance to the Arizona Bar through a rigorous examination. She became a qualified attorney shortly after.  Her company offered her a large promotion.

Perhaps you have talent in reserve too. Ask yourself: Can I use this interim position as a stepping-stone for a long-term position, and one that brings me closer to career victory? If you see an opportunity, your talent may lead you forward.

Invest in your talent. Adopt a reading program. Make yourself an expert on a career topic. Keep a journal, and write about your area of learning. You should strive to develop speaking and writing experience about your topic area of expertise. This will take some work, however a regular program of reading and writing could be accomplished in as little as 30 minutes a day, more if you are motivated to move forward.

Look for the opportunity.  Be prepared for the chance that providence gives you. “Its better to be prepared for an opportunity and not have one than to have an opportunity and not be prepared,” said Whitney Young. Think about several factors: 
 
      - How can you demonstrate your expertise? 

      - Who will support me when I step forward?

      - When will this message get its best reception?

If you prepare yourself with an expansion of your talent, combine that with your authentic enthusiasm, and look for the right moment to reveal your expertise, you will prevail.  You are worthy; your service is needed in this world, and you bring intelligence and readiness. Be like a tiger and leap!

According to the Chinese Zodiac, 2010 is the year of the golden tiger.

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