Anticipation: an important key to career optimisation
Recently, I watched the Rally championships taking place in Sweden. It struck me just how vital the navigator is for the driver as they race at great speeds over treacherous snow and ice. The navigator’s role is to call out the road ahead before they reach it. Anticipation of what is coming is vital.
I’d suggest that the same is true for any Financial Services professional. In the words of Tony Robbins: “winners anticipate.”
Pattern recognition
Reading the road ahead requires you to consider the issues that are likely to have an impact on the course of your career. Questions you might ask yourself include:
What areas is my industry investing in now?
What trends are emerging in the way client demand is developing?
What key concerns are the leadership of my firm—and our competitors—focusing on right now?
What social and cultural shifts are apparent, and what impact might they have?
What technological developments do I need to pay attention to?
Who should I be listening to? What are they saying, and when are they saying it? What can I learn from this?
Positioning: relationships
It’s important to build authentic relationships before you need them. In doing so, you need to be genuine and to find impactful ways to add value. It also helps to gain exposure by participating in cross-functional initiatives and attending events beyond your usual circle. Alongside this, optimise your LinkedIn profile with clear and compelling messaging. Do just enough while remaining low-key.
Positioning: skills and value - add capabilities
Consider carefully what skills and qualifications will be not only useful, but essential as the topography of your career environment changes. Ask yourself what experiences will ensure you can demonstrate your ability to deliver in future situations.
Career Strategy
Having a mindset of anticipation will lead you to think through scenarios in the near future. For example, if leadership changes, what shifts are likely in the firm’s priorities? How will that affect your team? The same applies to changes within your client organisations.
Anticipating the road ahead helps you position yourself effectively and prepares you for the inevitable change in this most dynamic of industries.
Closing thoughts
Ultimately, career optimisation isn’t about reacting quickly when change arrives—it’s about preparing before it does. Those who consistently look ahead, interpret the signals, and position themselves thoughtfully are the ones who create momentum rather than scramble for stability.
Anticipation turns uncertainty into opportunity, and in a fast-moving industry, that mindset can make all the difference. If you’re interested in finding out how Career Coaching can help you anticipate and, in turn, optimise your career, let’s talk. Click here to book a free, no-strings-attached Career Call at a time that suits.