Career Management (Not easy for most)

I'm reading a great biography about Dwight David Eisenhower ("Ike") by Michael Korda. Ike was the supreme commander of the Allied Forces during World War II. Ike commanded the largest force of men and women in the history of warfare. In addition to his service during World War II, Ike was a two-term US president. Though the intent of the biography is not to be a book about career management, the biography does provide great insight into Ike's career and provides an example of how to manage one's career.

Ike knew very early what he wanted to do with his career. In the biography, Korda presents a story of Ike taking his freshman oath as a West Point cadet. The oath stuck Ike "deep in his heart and soul." At that moment, Ike found his calling. I suspect that most of us during our freshman year in college did not have a clear vision of our future career, but knowing what we what from our career is essential in managing it. Coming up with the answer may be a challenge. If you are one of the lucky ones like Ike, the answer will come very early in your life. But for most, discovering the answer may take time. For most, 5-10 years into your career, more for some of us. Discuss the topic with your close allies such as parents, friends and teachers. Understand that the answer may not come easily, but knowing to ask the question is half the effort. With effort and time the answer will come.

The second element in managing your career is identifying mentors to help provide guidance and objective feedback. Ike had three great mentors in his career-- General John Pershing, General Douglas MacArthur, and General George Marshall. One could only wish for stellar mentors like these! Ike's mentors were willing to provide guidance and feedback, and most importantly, Ike was open to learning from them. In addition, he had a keen eye for searching out knowledge and ideas to better himself. The last element is the obvious one-- work hard. As the saying goes, "luck comes to the prepared." Ike is an example of hard work and preparation, and continuing to work hard though his effort is not immediately recognized. Though Ike would have performed his work in a vacuum, Ike craved recognition for his effort. Though Ike thought no one was noticing his early efforts, folks were watching him. A lesson to us: always keep in mind that great talent does not go unnoticed too long. With time, cream always rises to the top.

Managing your career is no easy task, but there are common elements which make up successful career management as exemplified by Ike's career. Know what you want; be on the lookout for mentors (and in a frame of mind to accept constructive feedback); work hard (real hard).

Raj