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maltatoday SUNDAY 29 APRIL 2018 Careers V One last gift un- der the tree. Sole Agency The Frank Salt Way. Our New Premium and Premium Plus sole agency packages oer you the services of Malta's most experienced negotiators, industry-leading marketing tools and advantageous commission rates. With a 70% success rate selling sole agency properties in the mandated time frame, there really is only 1 way to go. Visit franksalt.com.mt/premium for more information. Frankly, there is only way to go. Local. Experienced. Personal. Frank. Five signs your job is right for you, even if you don't feel like it THERE'S a reason work is called work — it's not always fun. But while it's easy to fixate on the everyday annoyances of your job, you should also be keeping an eye out for the signs that you're on the right career path. LinkedIn career expert Blair Decembrele talks about the signs that mean your job is right for you, even if it might not seem like it. 1. You're learning new skills, not just using old ones LinkedIn research has found that almost nine in 10 (89%) professionals feel that skills are more important than job titles. This data indicates that people are looking to work for a company that will help them further develop as a profes- sional while providing the tools and training necessary to succeed. To lock down a new job, you'll need to already possess a vast skill set that sets you apart from other applicants. Once you're fully in the posi- tion, however, it's important to not only keep using those skills but to also build upon them. Your job should push you to develop your craft. 2. There's a clear path for growth Whether you're working for a large corporate company or a smaller employer, look around to see if, in the future, there's room for you to grow as your skill set continues to expand. "One factor that helps people to stay driven in their current posi- tion is knowing there is oppor- tunity for growth," Decembrele said. "For example, if you work as a marketing associate at a fast growing company, find out if there are opportunities for you to join new company-wide projects on a regular basis and potentially progress into a managerial role." 3. You have a good work-life balance Although not every job falls under the typical 9 to 5 hour range, it's important to ensure that your work life will not interfere too heavily with your personal life, even if it's a job you truly enjoy. LinkedIn research has found that one in three professionals would take a 10% pay cut for the ability to design their own schedule. Some companies allow for one day a week to be worked from home, while others, like Dell, offers a program that al- lows employees to work where and when is best for them, focus- ing on the value of results. 4. You're inspired by the work that you're doing Feeling inspired by the work that you do in your position will keep you motivated. Many people feel a strong sense of purpose at work when they are able to use their skills to give back to others, whether through volunteer or mentorship initia- tives. According to LinkedIn, almost 90% of professionals say success isn't just about what you accomplish, it's about what you inspire others to do. 5. The hard work you're doing is acknowledged and appreciated With all the hard work you put into your job, it's disheart- ening not to receive proper acknowledgment. "Nearly half of westerners feel that success is comprised of both long-term and short- term wins. It's important that your contributions are being validated and acknowledged in the office. Think how great it feels to get 'a job well-done' email from your boss — this boost is the ultimate motivator," Decembrele said.