Whether you’re a student, recent graduate, or seasoned professional, it’s not uncommon for you to feel unsure of how to achieve your long-term goals – how to get from where you are to where you want to be. This is where a professional development plan can become your guide to lay out all the steps you need to achieve the future you see for yourself professionally. Here, Careers in Government shares how to develop this plan and move your career in government forward.

Outlining Your Career Goals

Before beginning any journey, you have to have a destination in mind. Make a list of the things you want to be part of your career destination.

Consider points like:

• What are my skills, what do I already know how to do and what talents can I expand on?
• What do I feel passionate about, and what skills and talents do I need to achieve a career in a field that inspires me?
• What employment arena would help me thrive? Do I do best working alone, in my own home office, or do I excel when surrounded by people who motivate me?
• What kind of income do I need to afford the lifestyle I want?
• What is my timeframe for achieving all or most of my goals?

Furthering Your Education

The first, most logical step is to become an expert in the career aspiration of your choice through education. It can be formal, an apprenticeship, a mentoring program, or on-the-job training.

If you decide that formal education is what you need to achieve your goals, it doesn’t necessarily mean dropping everything and going back to being a full-time student, you can get a degree in the field of your choosing by taking online courses that you can pursue on your schedule and at your own pace.

There are various degrees that can be helpful when pursuing a government position. Since there are so many areas in which you could serve, do a little research. One option is a degree in political science or public relations.

Pursuing Career Advancement

If you are seeking a fellowship, grant, postdoctoral position, or teaching/research position in a postsecondary institution or high-level research positions in your industry, then you’ll need to create an updated resume and CV.

Apprenticeship programs can be full-or-part-time. They can also be paid positions or unpaid internships. An excellent place to look for apprenticeship programs is through the U.S. Department of Labor, where there are thousands of opportunities you can apply for.

You can also check Careers in Government for job openings and resources that can help you with your search.