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Guest post by: Ed Sykes Become an Author

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In the 21st century, career opportunities in the job and employment marketplace are changing fast, and morphing all the time. In order to successfully take advantage of these career opportunities, you must develop a different mindset. Let me share this story that illustrates my point: In high school, my best friend and I went to his house to hang out. While there, his father asked what was I going to do when I finished high school. I said I was going to go to college. When my friend said he was going to college also, his father said, "You don't need college. Get a good job at the post office, get their benefits, and get a good retirement." As we see, that is not the case anymore. The era of staying twenty years at one company, enjoying bountiful benefits, and getting the "gold watch" at retirement is a thing of the past.

It has been said that a person will change their careers an average of seven times. Another report in USA Today stated the corporations of 21st century will be comprised of 60% contractors and only 40% employees. Why? Because corporations and other organizations need to be flexible with their resources and quickly acquire the skills needed to take advantage of opportunities to beat the competition.

So what does that mean for your career opportunities? It means that, in the 21st century job marketplace you will need to acquire the overall skills and attitude to be successful in your careers. The following are five secrets to creating more successful career opportunities and being prosperous in your life:

1. Develop an entrepreneurial attitude for career opportunities - What is an "entrepreneurial attitude?" It is a small business mindset that looks for opportunities and takes advantage of those opportunities. Even though you may work for a business or organization, if you think and behave as if you are in business for yourself and are increasing your career opportunities by managing your "business" opportunities. Constantly look for "areas of improvement" and be ready to present solutions. This will increase your value in the organization, let other people know that you can create solutions, and prepare you for future opportunities within or outside of the organization.
2. Be Flexible for career opportunities - According to a recent survey, in the 21st century, the average worker will experience seven different career opportunities. What does this mean? Although, in the past you worked on just one career, now you need to explore several career opportunities so that you are prepared for the career changes that are guaranteed to come your way. Be proactive and explore the career opportunities and advantages and disadvantages of each career. Remember, it is not a matter of if your career will change; it is a matter of when. Be prepared. (well said).
3. Develop a variety of skills for career opportunities - Be proactive and take ownership of your knowledge. Remember, once you acquire this knowledge, it is yours to keep. But don't stop there! Constantly volunteer for projects or take classes in subjects where you want to improve your knowledge. Make sure you improve your knowledge of your computer, social media, and other technical skills that might enhance your career opportunities.
4. Constantly "cast your net" for career opportunities - Constantly network or "cast for net" for career opportunities. Take the time to actively let other people know about your special skills and attitude. Along with networking or industry events, volunteering for a community or other cause can showcase your skills to an entirely new group of potential employers. Management in organizations often volunteer in the community and you have the opportunity to share your skills with these individuals. If they like you and the volunteer work you do, they will often ask you what you do as a living and possibly extend a career opportunity your way.
5. Communicate your special skills for career opportunities - One of the most important skills you can develop to increase your career opportunities is your communication skills. Prospective employers frequently voice concerns that, while the potential employee has good technical skills; the prospective employee cannot communicate within the organization. I have seen many opportunities lost because an employee who did a great job on a project or has a great idea was afraid to communicate their ideas in a meeting, group setting, or with their manager. Develop your public speaking, writing, and social media writing skills so that you can express your special skills. You may have noticed I also said social media. That is right. Use LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, and a host of other social media sites to communicate your accomplishments in an ongoing online career resume.

Apply these five secrets to increase your career opportunities and enjoy more success in life. When you develop the right attitude, be flexible, develop new skills, "cast your net," and communicate your skills, you will be competitive in the job market and prepared for any career opportunity that comes your way.

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