While conducting a job interview, how does one choose a deserving candidate? What if it is a tough choice and all candidates are good? How can one candidate stand out? Many a times, we think that we possess the skillsets that are suited for the career we are in. But, there are times when these skill-sets can take us only to a certain point- Why is that? It is because we reach a state of contentment as some would say, ‘I have reached here, the next we will see – Que Sera Sera (whatever will be, will be)’.

The same can even be the case with our investments. For example, we think we have invested during tax season, so our investments are taken care of. But that may not be the right approach. One needs to be consistent and regular which is possible through SIPs offered by mutual funds.

We must also look at our career in the same way and keep adding or honing skills with regularity to stand out among peers. Here are few things to keep in mind to enhance your career.

1. Hone your communication skills and etiquettes

Your body language, speaking skills, writing skills and other etiquettes may all be scrutinised during an interview. This could even shift the choice in your favour especially if all finalists have similar work experience. Hence it is important to keep polishing these skills to put your best foot forward. Similarly while investing, learn to follow basic etiquettes like defining goals, diversifying across asset classes, building tax efficiencies, besides portfolio and goal tracking.

2. You are your own mentor and teacher

It is imperative to recognise that you are your own mentor and teacher. You have to learn the skills that would help you move up the ladder. The corporate world is highly competitive and you need to take the wheel in your hand and pave the way for newer skills. In the same manner, take the onus of planning and investing for your goals well in advance, spend time with your financial advisor / tax consultant and understand the nuances that can help you build a sizeable investment corpus over the long run.

3. Explore new skills

There are various ways to learn new skills like you could subscribe to an e-learning portal or enlist in a series of workshops. Also, there are some free to air platforms which can help you learn new skills from the comfort of your home. Similarly, in case of your finances too, you must stay updated about your investments and the markets ats large. This can be achieved by attending investor education meets, reading business newspapers / magazines, visiting investor education portals, business news channels, among others.

4. Put your newly acquired skills to use

So you picked up a new skill, but you don’t know how to put it into practice. For instance, you have done an advanced course in Excel and want to test it out. One way is to speak to your boss and see if you can utilise these skills within your team itself. Else, check with colleagues in other teams if they need any help with Excel Spreadsheets. Show them how some formulas or functions you know can save a few man hours for them. In a similar way, keep spreading your knowledge on investments and mutual funds with your relatives and friends, especially those who are non-investors. This will encourage you to stay updated on various aspects of investing.

So, take the road less travelled and build the career you want rather than adopting a ‘one size fits all’ approach. Keep adding and upgrading skills regularly, just like the disciplined investment approach of SIPs in mutual funds.