Career Succession Planning

Career succession planning is something that many people fail to consider let alone plan. Ideally, we are all waiting for either that C-spot, cashing out and taking the entrepreneurial route or retiring rich (preferrably after hitting the lottery!). There are steps that need to be taken to adequately prepare for career succession.

• Get your managers and HR liasons involved in career pathing. Make it known what career path you want to follow and be sure to let your managers know so they can aid in developing your plan. An ally in HR is good to have so you can learn about the different opportunities that are available in the company.
• Develop your plan. Where you you want to go? What do you want to be when you grow up? Figure out what you ultimately would like to be doing at the height of your career and make goals and plans accordingly. This includes continuing your education (formal or informal).
• Set a timeline for your goals. You should know what you should achieve at each step of your plan. Figure out how much time you need to give yourself to get to each point. If you are not keeping up with these timelines you need to adjust your goals and/or plan.
• Keep yourself open to projects. Volunteering for project will give you the hands on experience you need to get you to your goal. Give yourself a chance to show what you can do. Incorporate any current and newly learned skills and make sure your managers are aware.
• Groom your replacement. There are many up and comers. But not everyone is deserving of your position. Everyone knows about networking and mentoring. You should be taking advantage of both. Keep your eye on fresh talent and look for those willing to learn, sacrifice and go the extra mile to get that brass ring. Don't try to turn this person into a carbon copy of yourself. But impart some of your wisdom and skill into this person.
• Have an exit plan. Having this is as important as having a career plan to begin with. Then note the above points.

Every career has a beginning, a middle and an end. It's up to you to make sure you work it all out for a smooth transition when it's time for you to go.