Ten ways to build your career

1.  Be proactive.  Actively seek opportunities to build core competencies over time.

2.  Build.  Build a record of increasing skills and responsibilities.

3.  Measure.  Use goals and timeframes to measure success and guide career decisions.

4.  Serve.  Increase your visibility by volunteering for the SOA or other professional associations.

5.  Present. Showcase your accomplishments through presenting.   Join Toastmasters to upgrade your communication, interpersonal, and presentation skills.

6.  Read.  Reading is perhaps the best way to avoid irrelevance in your chosen profession.  Keep up with industry, business and management trends by reading.

7.  Maintain balance.  Schedule fun time:  balance time at work with time with friends and family to maintain a positive work attitude and increase overall well-being.

8.  Relationships.  Develop a network of relationships including influential actuaries and reputable Recruiters to keep you informed of the marketplace.

9.  Seek help.  Career Coaches, Image Consultants, and Accent Reduction Specialists are valuable professionals that should be used on an as-needed basis.

10. Have an exit strategy.  Your Candidacy is strongest when you are sought, not when you are seeking.  Plan employment changes to coincide with strong markets.