Be intentional not reactive. Most people’s careers are not well planned and executed. For the majority, their career is the sum of their reactions to the things that have happened to them. An exceptional career requires constantly thinking about the direction and quality of the work you’re doing. Take some time to reflect on the delta between where you are and where you would like to be with your career. Then begin to map out the steps that would get you there. Then, don’t lose sight of your goals. Too often goals or dreams are written down and tucked away and then forgotten about.

Have a clear branding message. For what kinds of things are you the “go to” person? People get hired to help organizations achieve objectives and solve problems. Be prepared to talk about the kind of objectives you help organizations achieve and the kind of problems you help organizations solve, and thereby the kind of difference you make. Create a verbal portfolio of accomplishment with stories that can reinforce your message.