With a proactive attitude, you can chart your career graph as you conduct your daily routine and potentially achieve your career objectives sooner than you thought possible. Below are a few suggestions:

• Recharge your network. One way to keep your career moving forward is to maintain a comprehensive base of business contacts. In today's hiring environment, companies are increasingly relying on referrals to locate promising candidates. Even during times when you're not looking for a new position, these individuals can often provide valuable advice and support. 
  
  
• Seek new skills. Look for opportunities to enhance your skills and experience, such as pursuing an advanced accounting designation or asking for increased responsibility in your current position. If you're less familiar with new accounting regulations than your peers, for example, consider attending a relevant seminar or devoting more time to reviewing industry publications. Join a professional association. 
  
  
• Find your missing link. Finally, make sure you're truly satisfied with your position and career. You may be confident in your role and feel secure in your job, but be careful not to mistake complacency for comfort. Ask yourself what one change would make you happier at work -- such as greater variety in the projects you're given, or increased autonomy -- and take the appropriate steps to address the issue.

See also: Firms Say Associations Are Beneficial

ACCOUNTEMPS is a specialized temporary staffing service for accounting, finance and bookkeeping professionals. Accountemps provides support throughout an accounting department. Headquartered in Menlo Park, Calif., Accountemps and has more than 270 offices in North America, Europe and Australia. Accountemps' Career Counselor column, a SmartPros staple for over four years, is refreshed twice a month.