Even with a solid resume, many professionals feel they are not advancing. The problem may lie in lack of visibility, the right skills, and intentional action.
Standing still in your career, even with a good track record, is more common than it seems.
"You feel that you deliver results, have experience, but are not recognized. Meanwhile, others, seemingly less prepared, pass you by," says Virgilio Marques dos Santos, co-founder of FM2S Education and Consulting, PhD from Unicamp, and career manager.
Santos explains that what is missing for those in this situation is not an unfathomable mystery. In most cases, there are three main factors:visibility(ensure the right people recognize your worth)key skills(practical skills that the market demands today, such as communication, management, and strategic decision-making) andintentional action(stop waiting and start building the desired future). "The problem is that many professionals are afraid to take that step. It is more comfortable to blame the environment, the boss, or the difficult market conditions. However, those who truly change understand that the power of transformation begins within themselves," he analyzes.
According to Santos, stagnation at work is generally related to complacency with the current situation and the belief that merely completing tasks is enough.The market has changed. Today, just having a diploma is not enough. The differential lies in demonstrating the ability to solve problems, lead in uncertain scenarios, and create innovative solutions.", says."
Check out five practical strategies recommended by Santos to unlock your career and build new paths:
1. Reinvent your routine:Propose new solutions for old problems. It can be something simple, but that demonstrates initiative and attention to what needs to change;
2. Learn something new and applicable:courses that combine theory and practice, focusing on everyday tools — such as leadership, agile methodologies, or team management — tend to generate immediate impact;
3. Expand your network of contacts:Talking with professionals outside your circle can reveal opportunities and bring new ideas. The missing key to your turnaround might be with someone you haven't met yet;
4. Show what you do:Knowing how to communicate results is essential. "Reports, presentations, or even informal conversations are valuable moments to highlight your impact," reinforces Santos;
5. Embrace the discomfort:Leaving the place requires effort. It could be a change of area, tough feedback, or an unexpected challenge. But it is in this discomfort that growth happens.
For the manager, stagnation is a phase that requires analysis and strategic action. "The key to overcoming the deadlock lies in the ability to reassess one's own path and take concrete steps to move forward, without waiting for circumstances to change on their own. This can start today," he concludes.
