Trajectory: 7 Career Strategies to Take You from Where You Are to Where You Want to Be

When the economy's difficult and jobs aren't secure, people tend to focus on the short term ... on survival. But what they don't grasp is how their current position could be a springboard to their next position-or even the one after that. Caught between a fear of failure and a desire for instant success, they limit the risks they take, unwittingly limiting their opportunities. As much as they want to get ahead, they simply can't see how to get there.

Trajectory is the answer. Each and every person has their own "trajectory" or career path-and this timely and refreshingly practical new book presents seven strategies designed to help anyone create and manage theirs. Listeners will discover how to

make the most of feedback;avoid stagnation and break through plateaus;think big, act small, and move fast;achieve growth through failure; move to the front of the pack through persistence;continuously develop both "soft" and "hard" professional skills;and much more.

Career success doesn't happen overnight. From building relationships with mentors, to positioning (and repositioning) yourself for promotion-this essential guide provides the tools you need for a lifetime of advancement.

Career success doesn’t happen overnight . . . and in a difficult economy, it can be easy to focus simply on having and keeping a job, rather than on how your current position can be a springboard to your next.

Everyone has their own “trajectory,” or career path—what matters is how you take advan­tage of your skills and the possibilities around you. This essential guide provides the tools you need for a lifetime of fulfillment and success.

Are you limiting the risks you take and unwittingly limiting your opportunities? From building relationships with mentors to positioning (and repositioning) yourself to reach your potential, Trajectory shows you how to avoid stagnation and break through plateaus; continuously develop both “soft” and “hard” professional skills; move to the front of the pack through persistence; make the most of feedback; and even achieve growth through failure. Combining psychology with real-world, practical guidance, this book helps you take control of your career.

Praise for Trajectory:

“Trajectory provides you with proven advice to boost your career. This powerful and straightforward book is sure to motivate and guide you to maximize your potential.”

— Marshall Goldsmith, author of New York Times and global bestseller What Got You Here Won’t Get You There

“Clear, practical, and insightful, Trajectory illuminates a smarter, more efficient route to success for leaders, employees, and entrepreneurs in any industry.”

— Shawn Achor, New York Times bestselling author of The Happiness Advantage and positive psychology researcher

“Trajectory maps out a range of effective approaches for achieving career goals. If you’re stuck about what to do or where to go, this is a thought-provoking read.”

—Adam Grant, Wharton professor and bestselling author of Give and Take

“As the HR leader of one of the world’s most admired companies a prime focus of mine continues to be ensuring people develop meaningful and successful careers. The strategies in Trajectory will enable you to do just that. Consider this book essential reading if you are serious about owning and accelerating your career.”

—David Rodriguez, Executive Vice President & Chief Human Resources Officer, Marriott International

“Inspirational and achievable! Van Rooy combines science, history, and real-life examples in this powerful guide to fulfilling one’s career destiny. Whether your goal is to find your own complete ‘point of flow in career satisfaction’ or achieve the highest levels in your field, Trajectory is a must-read to chart your path.”

—Tom Waldron, Senior Vice President, People, Walmart

“Trajectory leaves you with tried and tested advice to advance your career. Whether you are just entering the job market or are already established at work, these timeless strategies will help you take control of your career to be more successful.”

—Hon. Howard A. Schmidt, former Cyber Advisor for President Bush and President Obama