Your Career is Your Project - Start Managing It Like One
Whether you’re between roles, exploring opportunities while employed, or positioning yourself for a promotion, the same principles apply:
Your next opportunity may come from a conversation, a connection, or the way you position your story, not just what’s on paper.
It’s easy to think that applying for roles is enough. But the truth is, the people who land the best opportunities, faster, take an intentional, proactive approach.
Here are three strategies I use with my coaching clients to help them get clear, connected, and in control of their next move.
1. Make Your Network Work For You
Your network isn’t just a “nice to have”, it’s your greatest asset in your career. For job seekers, it can lead to referrals. For promotion seekers, it can help you build internal champions.
My go-to actions:
Start where you are - If you’re employed, begin by strengthening internal relationships. Talk to decision-makers and colleagues in other teams. If you’re in job search, focus on reconnecting with former colleagues, clients, and industry peers.
Be specific with your ask - “I’m looking for a Senior Marketing Manager role in the FMCG sector in Sydney” is far more helpful than “I’m looking for a new job.”
Give as much as you get (and LinkedIn is great for this) - Share useful articles, make introductions, or congratulate people on their wins. This keeps you visible in a positive way.
Practical prompt: This week, reach out to three people in your network you haven’t spoken to in over six months. Share an update on what you’re up to and ask what’s new with them.
2. Craft Your Positioning Statement
If someone asked you tomorrow, “Tell me about yourself,” could you answer in a way that instantly positions you for the roles you want?
Your elevator pitch (value statement) is the bridge between what you’ve done and where you want to go. It should highlight your skills, achievements, and the value you bring, in a way that makes sense for the opportunity you’re targeting.
How to create it:
Current - What you are currently doing, or have most recently been doing.
Past - A brief overview of your background that emphases your breadth and depth.
Future - The type of role or opportunity you want next.
Practical prompt: Write your own elevator pitch and practice saying it until it feels natural. Use it in networking conversations, interviews, and even internal discussions about promotion.
3. Treat Your Career Like a Project
The same way you’d run a high-stakes project, with goals, milestones, and check-ins, is how you should manage your career moves.
Steps to apply:
Set clear goals - Decide if you’re aiming for an internal move, a new employer, or a complete career pivot.
Break it down - Identify the tasks you need to complete (resume update, networking outreach, interview prep, skills training).
Create accountability - Schedule regular “career check-ins” with yourself (or a trusted mentor) to track progress.
Adjust as needed - If one approach isn’t getting results, refine your strategy.
Practical prompt: Create a simple 30-day plan with 3-4 clear actions each week. For example: Week 1 - Update resume; Week 2 - Reach out to 5 contacts; Week 3 - Complete LinkedIn profile overhaul; Week 4 - Attend 1 industry networking event.
Your Next Step
Whether you’re unemployed, employed but looking, or positioning for a promotion - the actions you take now will pay off when opportunity knocks.
This week’s mission:
Reach out to three people in your network.
Draft and practice your positioning statement.
Create your 30-day career action plan.
You’ll be surprised how quickly things start to shift when you approach your career like your most important project.
If you found this newsletter helpful, forward it to a friend or colleague who’s navigating a career change or growth.
Need support?
We’re here for exactly this. Whether you’re navigating a change, feeling stuck, or needing a confidence reboot - that’s what Project Roar is all about.
Reply to this email if you’d like to book a 1:1 or explore how we can support you through these uncertain times. Sometimes talking to someone who is close to the market can be reassuring.
Catherine Harris
Career Expert & Strategist | Founder, Project Roar
Highly Commended Winner, CDAA National Award 2024
www.projectroar.com.au