Episode 15 How to Have a Career Conversation with Your Boss

In this episode, Sarah dives into a topic many professionals overlook: how to have a meaningful career conversation with your boss. Whether you’re seeking growth opportunities, more fulfilling projects, or simply clarity on your next steps, Sarah shares the benefits of these conversations and a step-by-step process to help you approach them with confidence.What You'll Learn:The difference between career conversations and performance reviewsWhy regular career discussions are vital for your growthKey benefits for both you and your organizationChallenges you might face and how to overcome themA practical framework to prepare, initiate, and follow up effectivelyShow Notes:[00:00:00] Welcome to Unstuck and Unstoppable — Introduction to the podcast and Sarah's background.[00:01:00] Episode Overview — The importance of career conversations and why they matter.[00:02:00] What is a Career Conversation? — How it's different from appraisals, one-on-ones, and supervision sessions.[00:03:00] Benefits for You and the Business — How these discussions support your growth and organizational goals.[00:04:00] How Your Boss Can Help — The role of your manager in unlocking opportunities and providing guidance.[00:05:00] Taking Ownership of Your Career — Why you need to be proactive and drive the conversation.[00:06:00] Common Challenges — Addressing time constraints, lack of clarity, and fear of taking action.[00:08:00] Identifying What You Need — Clarifying the support you seek: time, capacity, connections, visibility, or guidance.[00:09:00] Turning Challenges into Opportunities — How to navigate uncertainty and use your boss as a sounding board.[00:10:00] How to Prepare for the Conversation — Tips for getting clear on your goals and needs.[00:11:00] Structuring the Conversation — From setting the scene to outlining your vision of success.[00:12:00] Requesting Feedback — How to ask for constructive insights on your career path.[00:13:00] Exploring Ideas and Agreeing on a Plan — Collaborating with your boss to identify opportunities and next steps.[00:14:00] Building a Continuous Career Dialogue — Why regular follow-ups are key to sustained growth.[00:15:00] What If Your Boss Isn’t Supportive? — Finding alternative mentors, sponsors, or career coaches.[00:16:00] Closing Thoughts — Final reflections, resources, and an invitation to connect on LinkedIn.Useful LinksWatch the LinkedIn LiveSign up for Weekly Career InspirationLearn about Leadership & Advancement Coaching ProgrammesBook a Free 121 Clarity CallJoin The Love What You Do Facebook GroupConnect with Sarah on LinkedInRate & Review the PodcastIf you found this episode of Unstuck & Unstoppable helpful, please do rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.If you're kind enough to leave a review, please do let Sarah know so she can say thank you. You can always reach her at: [email protected] support means the world and helps more women unlock their extraordinary potential. Remember: Shine brightly, lead boldly, and be unstoppable!