Keep U in Your Career Change Journey

1.      Stop and breathe

The step to stop and breathe sounds so simple; however, it is the one most overlooked as we have become accustomed to reacting and wanting immediate gratification.  I refer to this with my clients as the chasing the paycheck syndrome.

2.      Evaluate what is important at your current life stage

The next pointer is to think about what is important to you now at whatever stage of life you are in.  For most people, it has been a while since they were last in the job market and over the years their family situation has changed, their lifestyle has evolved, and the pandemic has altered their priorities - thus the opportunity landscape has shifted.

3.      Envision what you’d like your life to be in the short and longer term

Where are you, what are you doing, how are you spending your personal time and how are you feeling?

My clients hear me refer to this in framing things in terms of life/work balance.

4.      Identify what you enjoy doing and the positions that align with those skills and interests

While you are giving yourself permission to pause a bit, identify the parts of your previous jobs that you ENJOYED then think of positions that align with those skills and interests to create a list of target position.

5.      Establish priority pillars to be considered as non-negotiables when researching options

Now, with that insight establish your priority pillars to be used as guideposts for when evaluating your career options.

For example: working remotely or in person, time/schedule requirements, location, etc.  whatever they are they are YOUR non-negotiables as you research what’s next.

6.      Stay open to unconventional opportunities

There are oodles of jobs out there so it is important to remain open with ideas that may seem unconventional at first, don’t be too quick in casting them aside.

7.      Dare to challenge the inclinations to immediately look for similar jobs to what you have done, follow the path of what you think you “should” do, or what others say you ought to do.

8.      Network, let people know what you are interested in doing

It is true that family, friends and colleagues can help open doors that a cover letter and resume can’t, but in order for them to help they need to know your career goals.  It is also important to find opportunities to be around people in the industry and/or companies you are targeting your search.

Now if you are looking to break out on your own there are many resources to support you in figuring out what business, the what and how to make it happen.

9.      Take action toward the career for U

Now it is time to create the plan and work the plan to achieve your desired career change.  Elements of the action plan include research, networking, marketing, education/training, certifications, etc.  This helps you stay focused.

10.  Own what’s best for U

With all the possibilities available you may wonder how you will know what’s right for you  –  this is when you need to pay attention to your gut.  When you read or hear about an opportunity you will sit up (sometimes literally) and pay attention, something will speak to you or light a spark within – that will be a sign for you.

Once you know, own your decision, work the plan and keep the faith.