It’s important to keep up focus on our development throughout the year so that we can take full advantage of any opportunities that come up. That’s why we’re bringing you James Cook’s development story as a great example of how you can do just that…
I started at CUK in 2016 as a Personal Cruise Expert in the Contact Centre before moving to Social Media Guest Relations in 2018. During this period I spotted an opportunity for a secondment on board as a Loyalty & Cruise Sales Manager which I took. However, after a month or so, another secondment came up in CRM and Marketing as a Loyalty Specialist came up which was too good to miss. Even though I had to return to my previous role, due to Covid, it paid off for me because in November last year I was able to permanently join the CRM and Marketing team as a CRM Executive!
By working in different roles in the business, a huge benefit is knowing how other areas work. Knowing how we operate as a business is so important for progression, and also shows you’re willing to try something new. For those who are unsure what direction they want to go in, trying different things can help you work out which areas you’re really passionate about too.
Making yourself known
It’s really important to make yourself known around the business areas you’re interested in. That way when something does come up, they’ll (hopefully) think of you as a potential candidate. My advice to anyone wanting to progress is make the most of these opportunities, whatever they may be. Not only can it help with your progression, it helps to keep each week different to the last.
It can be tough to fit personal development around the day job when things are busy, but if you have a clear vision of where you want to go, or even just a general idea, and you then make this goal known to your friends and colleagues, you’ll get closer even if it does take time.
Having patience
For me, patience is also key (which is not always easy, my friends will know I’m not the most patient person). There have been a few setbacks along the way – a couple of jobs I didn’t get for instance. One particular role I applied for a few years ago, I didn’t get because I’d never worked on board before. So I listened to that feedback, and managed to secure myself a secondment on board as a Loyalty & Cruise Sales Manager. I loved my time on board, and the experience helped me get to where I am now.
The key for me is to see everything as an opportunity. Even though I’ve been rejected from roles before, I’m in a new role that I love, and the feedback I got really helped me get my current CRM Executive position. Applying for these roles also shows interest, which never goes unnoticed.
Thanks James, now over to you…
As James mentions, getting yourself noticed is a great way for people to have you in mind when opportunities come up. Developing your personal brand will help you do just this. Read this short article to help you market yourself, and take yourself through the networking skillbook to help you map your network.
If you haven’t already, you just need to sign up with your CUK email address.
We know it also be tricky to come up with the types of activities that will help you get ahead. So why not download our 5 step plan for some fresh ideas?
We want to hear from you. If you have your own development journey story or some tips and tricks to share with our colleagues please let us know at Internal.Comms@carnivalukgroup.com.