Take a Bet on Yourself

At Citizens, we recognize everyone’s career journey is unique. We encourage colleagues to follow their interests and curiosity to explore new opportunities within Citizens when they’re ready for the next chapter. With programs, upskilling and networking opportunities, advice and guidance, you can build the career you want with us. In 2023, almost 30% of colleagues accepted new roles internally.

For most of her career, Kristy's experience in the banking industry has been in consumer credit cards. She made a jump to work in Human Resources as a Development Consultant and proved the best career path isn't always a straight line. In her own words, Kristy shares advice about how to make unexpected career changes.

Find the intersection between your interests and your abilities.

It might seem simple - but getting to know yourself is the most important first step:

• If you find something you're not particularly good at (or don’t have much experience with) but enjoy doing it anyway, that's now an area of development for you.
• If you find something that lands squarely in the ‘good at and enjoy doing’ that’s obviously a keeper! It’s something to look for as you research roles.
• If you see something that falls within the 'not good at and don’t enjoy', look for roles that limit or exclude these things. This exercise will often lead you to think about deal breakers, or factors that under no circumstances you’d be willing to do. Ultimately, you're looking for the best opportunities for you.

Be confident articulating your career preferences with not only your manager, but your expanded network.

Once you understand and can articulate your preferences, it’s time to share them! You can begin by discussing your career with your manager. By signaling what you are interested in, managers can scout for you and offer support.

But growing your career means taking action beyond just telling your manager. Tell anyone you meet and share what you're interested in. They may not have an available role, but if something opens up, you'll be at the top of their mind. Think of it like this: Put out into the world what you want and be patient and open to receiving it.

Who you are today doesn't have to be who you are tomorrow.

Try not to subscribe to any self-limiting beliefs about career trajectories or a certain level of required experience. Push yourself to learn new things, to engage in conversations you wouldn’t normally engage in, to be curious. Don’t shy away from feedback. Forgive yourself for your past mistakes – make them more about the lesson you learned. We call all of this a 'growth mindset'.

Take a bet on yourself. You’re worth it. Investing in yourself always delivers a positive return!

Make Your Own Career Moves

1. Get Involved
   Joining a Business Resource Group (BRG) is a great way to meet people in different areas of the bank and provides an opportunity to demonstrate skills to new colleagues.
2. Express your Interests to Your Manager
   Not sure who to network with? Your manager may be able to provide a warm introduction. Plus, it enables your manager to be an ally as you drive your career journey.
3. Be Curious
   Be open to new information, ideas, and people. By doing so, you build relationships and your personal brand.

Read more stories showcasing the unique paths our colleagues have taken to achieve career success.

Are you looking to continue your career journey with a company made ready to support your unique career aspirations?

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