Luck may seem to have an impact on the success or failings that you have experienced throughout your career. This can be especially frustrating if you perceive yourself as having bad luck, while those around you seem to benefit from good luck. However, this perception is misleading. It’s more likely the good luck is the result of being in the right place at the right time and being ready when an opportunity presents itself. The key to creating career luck is to position yourself for success.

7 Ways to Take Control of Your Career and Turn Good Fortune into Lasting Success

1. Define Your Career Goals

Creating your own career luck starts with knowing exactly where you want to go. Reflect on your past achievements and challenges and compare where you are now with where you see yourself in 5, 10 or 15 years. What specific skills, experiences or knowledge do you need to reach your goals? What obstacles might pop up and how can you overcome them? Having a clear vision will guide your career path. After you set your long-term goals, break them down into smaller, more manageable short-term objectives.

2. Invest in Your Development

Career growth requires constant learning. Take a close look at your skills and ask yourself if there are any gaps that need to be filled. Is there a course, certification or experience that would help you level up? Stay proactive about learning, whether it’s through formal education, online courses or certifications. These investments will make you more competitive and open up more opportunities. Even free resources, like webinars, can help you stay on top of industry trends and accelerate your career.

3. Build Your Network

Networking is crucial for career advancement, but it’s about more than just collecting business cards or adding people on LinkedIn. It’s about building real, meaningful relationships. Attend industry events, engage in online communities and connect with people who share your professional interests. The relationships you nurture today might open doors to opportunities down the road. By consistently staying in touch with both your online and offline networks, you increase the chances that when the right opportunity comes along, someone will think of you.

4. Develop Your Personal Brand

In today’s world, your online presence is often the first impression you make. Take some time to clean up your social media profiles to ensure they reflect your professional image. Keep your LinkedIn profile up to date with relevant skills, experience and a polished photo. Engage with industry content to show you’re active and knowledgeable. The more visible and engaged you are online, the better your chances are of catching the attention of potential employers.

5. Volunteer for New Projects

One of the best ways to build new skills, gain visibility and boost your career luck is by volunteering for new projects. Taking on new challenges not only helps you learn but also shows you’re proactive and eager to contribute. Plus, it gives you a chance to expand your professional network and build connections that could lead to new career opportunities.

6. Stay Open to New Opportunities

Sometimes, the biggest career opportunities come from unexpected places. Don’t limit yourself to your current job description or industry. Keep an open mind about new possibilities, whether they’re within your current company or elsewhere. A lateral move or a change in industry might be just what you need to open new doors and grow in ways you didn’t anticipate.

7. Partner with the Right People

The people you work with and the organizations you align yourself with can have a major impact on your career path. Partnering with the right people can help you access better opportunities. This is where RealStreet can make a difference. By working with us, you’ll have access to roles that match your skills and career goals. We connect you with top employers in your field, giving you the chance to find opportunities that fit your ambitions. With our help, you can set yourself up for success and create your own career luck.

Ready to Create Your Own Career Luck?

At RealStreet, we’re here to help you find career opportunities that match your skills and goals. Whether you’re advancing in your current field or exploring new paths, we work with top employers who are looking for talent like yours. By partnering with us, you can streamline your job search, position yourself for long-term success and increase your chances of creating your own career luck. Let’s turn your preparation into the opportunity you’ve been working toward.