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4. Conduct a Career Check-Up

Once you hit your 30s, it's a good time to consider whether or not the company you work for and the field that you're in offer the growth potential to carry you into your 40s and 50s.

The only way to know if you're qualified to climb the corporate ladder is to speak with your boss. "Be upfront about what you want...and the advancement that you desire," says Joel Garfinkle, a career coach for Google and Microsoft. Also find out if pursuing an advanced degree will help you. "Generally, in the corporate marketplace, degrees like an MBA aren't needed to compete with others," says Garfinkle. "It mainly comes down to your experience." Instead, find out if your company offers classes that teach employees specific skills.

It's also important to know the status of the company's finances. Take note of whether or not the company is expanding or if it's becoming obsolete due to technological advancements or other changes.

Your happiness is important, too. If you dread going into work or are just curious to see what else is out there, set up some interviews. Before you head to that next interview, freshen up your resume.

Check out our story for tips on how to fatten up your paycheck at work.


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