One career mistake is all it takes to have a damaging impact on professional ambitions.

David Carey, from Eastwood, runs his own career development practice, in Leigh, and says avoiding these mistakes, while keeping your focus and passion for your work, will help you go much further in your career, while ensuring you get enjoyment out of your day-to-day working life.

This week, David gives advice on five more career mistakes which can have a damaging impact on professional ambitions.

1) THINKING THE GRASS IS GREENER

Before moving roles ask yourself why you are doing it. After all, simply believing that somewhere else is better than your current place of work could leave you disappointed. The grass isn’t always greener. Make sure you are moving for the right reasons before beginning to search for a new role.

2) ALLOWING YOUR SKILLS TO BECOME OUT OF DATE

Keeping up with technology is essential to keeping your skill base relevant. In order to continue your personal development being willing to adapt and embrace is a must. Improve this by taking on additional courses or qualifications.

3) TRUST YOUR GUT FEELING

After working in an industry for some time you begin to develop a deep

understanding of that business, so let your experience drive your instincts. Try to trust your intuition when it comes to important career decisions.

4) FOCUSING ON PROJECTS WHICH WILL DRIVE THE MOST VALUE

It is important to make sure you are concentrating on the right projects and maximising your time, instead of the smaller tasks which may not be adding as much value. Making an impact at work will only increase your motivation to succeed within your role. Try to focus on the projects that will drive your company forward, bring in revenue and help the business grow.

5) YOU MUST BELIEVE IN YOURSELF

Self-doubt can be dangerous – if you don’t believe in yourself your colleagues won’t either. It is important to project confidence and sound assured in the decisions you make. Try to build your confidence by thinking back to all those things you have achieved in your career.

To find out more about the services David Carey provides, visit interviewtraining.co.uk