Photo by Tima Miroshnichenko from Pexels You've been in your present employment for a long time. On the surface, everything seems to be in order. But you're wondering why you haven't been promoted by now. You want to continue your studies. And how come someone much younger than you is generating so much more money than you?

If you're like many others, you may be dissatisfied with your job. Why shouldn't you?

Employees used to remain at one employer for their whole career and were properly taken care of. Companies have little motivation to grant big promotions and financing for ongoing education with people moving employment every 4.6 years, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Companies often spend effort luring the finest employees away from competitors. These new workers are given greater titles and substantially larger pay packages. In such a competitive environment, job seekers often ask what they can do to advance.

Take charge of your own professional development

The first step is to get out of the backseat and into the driver's seat. You have to be the CEO of your career in today's economy. Nobody else's duty but your own is it to go forward.

Spend some time analyzing your own strengths and limitations. Look for chances to emphasize your strengths and develop in areas wherever you fall short.

Always be on the lookout for your next chance

If you're not getting what you need in your present work, it may be time to look for a new one. "You won't stay there long, so constantly keep searching," says Dr. Charles Austin, Director of Career Development at the Musicians Institute in Hollywood. You're constantly on the lookout for your next job. What has previously been true for artists and individuals in the entertainment business is now also true for the rest of the nation. Everyone works as a freelancer."

This lesson applies whether you are a contractor or a full-time employee. In today's economy, even accomplished long-term workers might find themselves out of work if their firm goes out of business or initiates layoffs. You will have a lot longer road ahead of you if you have not spent the time developing your network. Those that maintain contact with connections and make an effort to broaden their network will always find it simpler to get their next job.

Be proactive in your present job

You will not be acknowledged if you do not provide value to your organization. "Don't wait for chances to present themselves inside your business. "Be proactive and identify methods to stand out," advises Dr. Sam Sanders, a lecturer at the University of Phoenix. "Taking responsibility for your own growth may lead to larger obligations and, eventually, greater emotions of self-worth."

When you put your best foot forward, you have the best chance of advancing. In principle, your efforts should be rewarded. And, if your effort is not being acknowledged, it may indicate that your company does not place a high value on your abilities. This is one another indication that you should explore beyond your company's gates for your next opportunity.

Investigate your pay

Do your research. Learn how much people in your field are paid for their labor. Companies may pay a variety of wages for a specific job, so be sure you're getting appropriately rewarded. Sites such as Glassdoor.com provide insider information to assist you determine your market worth.

If you discover that you are earning much less than others, it could be time to make a change. Most organizations provide normal annual wage increases of two to four percent. This pales in contrast to the significant compensation boosts that new recruits receive when they move jobs. If you do search elsewhere, remember to utilize the wage information you discovered in your next negotiation.

Recognize your working surroundings

Make sure you completely grasp what you're signing up for before accepting your next job. After all, save your spouse and family, who else will you spend this much time with each day? "The internet has paved the path for workplace openness," said Scott Dobroski, Glassdoor.com's Career Trends Analyst. "Researching a firm is similar to looking up a restaurant online and reading ratings and reviews."

You may see evaluations submitted by workers as well as answers from employers on several websites. You'll immediately determine whether or not this is the workplace for you. But keep everything in context. If just one person has posted a review, and it is bad, check for further information on other websites.

Seek for possibilities for professional advancement

Because your firm may not have the finances to send you to grad school or a continuing education program, you should not sit back and wait. Additional schooling may often lead to greater promotions and higher pay in the future.

It also keeps your talents sharp and establishes a safe place which will keep you employed for many years to come. The very last thing you want to be in a job you've fought so hard for is obsolete and irrelevant.

Take charge

Whether you're self-employed or working for somebody else, taking control of your own career is essential for success. After all, who will if you don't?