By Silvia Seelig

In searching for a job, many things need to be taken into consideration when selecting the companies that interest you. You should think about the type of job you want, the type of work environment that best suits you, and what a company has to offer you as an employee.

Compass Pointing the Way to Business OpportunityOne important thing you should do is to determine whether a company offers advancement opportunities that you can take advantage of in order to create job longevity. You can take control of your job advancement opportunities by identifying a company and what it has to offer before you accept a job with them. After you have been hired, you need to find out what you need to do in order to be considered for a promotion or another position within the company. By selecting stable and secure companies and companies that will advance you from within, you can create job security for yourself.

OJTMany companies today look at their employees to promote into positions within the company or give them the opportunity to apply for jobs that become available. If you are interested in advancing within a company, knowing what they offer and how you can best take advantage of the opportunity will help you reach the desired position you are seeking. You may find that in order to get into a desired company, you may need to accept an entry level position and work your way up into your desired position. Many companies offer on-the-job training and then, quickly advance individuals into higher positions.

IBEX GlobalOne company that is new to the New Braunfels area, IBEX Global, is such a company. It offers its employees the opportunity to advance into higher positions within a few months of working on the job. They offer on-the-job training and advancement opportunities including having employees apply for job openings within the company.

IBEXThey have quickly identified employees that show leadership skills and have positioned them to be promoted into team leader roles and management positions. IBEX Global is an advocate of looking at its own employees to promote and supports them as they seek to move into other positions within the company.

How can you grow within the company you are working for, you may ask?

LearningFirst of all, identify the advancement opportunities that exist and determine what you need to do in order to be recognized and considered for a promotion or for a job opening you may desire. You may need to learn a few new skills or take a class or two in order to qualify for the position, but you may find that the company offers educational incentives and/or training. Take advantage of any training your employer may offer to further develop your skills.

perform engageSecondly, take the initiative to increase your visibility within the company. Increase your responsibility to show your value and abilities to your employer. Your action will show your employer that you are able to handle more responsibility and will increase your chances of being promoted or considered for the job you desire. You want to position yourself so that when a job opening becomes available, your job performance and abilities have already been recognized.

Thirdly, let your employer know that you are interested in advancing within the company. You may find that your employer will work with you to establish a long-term job opportunity for you and turn your job into a career.

opportunity_careerGrowing and advancing within a company is a win-win situation for you as the employee as well as your employer. Take the time to find out if the company you are looking to work for offers job advancements and lateral job moves. If so, take advantage of every opportunity offered and create job security for yourself.  Remain visible as a valued and qualified employee and be prepared for any opportunity that presents itself.