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Balancing Passion and Practicality in Your Career Choice

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A few years ago, comedienne Melissa McCarthy did an incredibly funny sketch on SNL. She walked into a bank as “Barb,” seeking a small business loan for her new pizza business. The loan officer (played by Jason Sudeikis) soon figured out she was actually asking for a loan to start a pizza eating business. (In other words, she wanted to get paid for eating people’s leftover pizza.) The loan officer asked, “What gave you the idea that the bank would give you money so that you could eat pizza?” McCarthy replied, “I read that book, Do What You Love, the Money Will Follow. And I said, ‘Barb, you love eating pizza!'”

It’s funny because it’s absurd…but you get the point. Yes, we need to follow our passions and pursue careers around “doing what we love,” but obviously, not everything we love to do is going to make money. In other cases, there may be a wide range of career options that allow us to do things that align with our passion. We need a bit of common sense in this equation–and that’s where practicality comes into play.

The journey of career selection can often feel like a tightrope walk, balancing between what truly ignites your spirit (your passion) and what aligns with the realities of life (practicality). Understanding these two concepts is a key step in making an informed career decision.

Passion is that deep-seated enthusiasm or intense desire for a particular subject or activity. It’s what makes your heart race with excitement and fills your mind with images of potential accomplishments. It’s the spark that can turn an ordinary job into a fulfilling career.

On the other hand, practicality refers to considering the tangible aspects of a career choice. This could be the job market demand, financial stability, work-life balance, and career growth opportunities. It’s about ensuring that your career can sustainably support your lifestyle and future goals.

Balancing these two elements in your career choice is crucial because while passion can fuel your drive and make your work feel rewarding, practicality ensures that your career is sustainable and aligns with your personal and financial goals.

Let’s dive deeper into how you can achieve this balance.

Evaluate Your Strengths and Weaknesses

Knowing your strengths can help identify careers that harness your natural abilities, while understanding your weaknesses allows you to spot areas for improvement or careers to avoid. For instance, if you’re passionate about music but struggle with stage fright, a behind-the-scenes role in the music industry (like producing) might be more practical than performing.

Make Practical Choices Around Your Passion

Bear in mind that passion and practicality aren’t always mutually exclusive–in fact, you can often get them to work together. Going back to the analogy of the musician…if you’re passionate about becoming a performer and you know you won’t be happy working behind the scenes, then the practical solution would be to seek training and/or therapy to deal with your stage fright and learn how to overcome it. In other words, don’t give up on your passion because of your weakness, but have a little patience and take practical steps to turn that weakness into a strength.

Take Key Factors into Account with Your Career Choice

When deciding on a career path, it’s also important to consider factors like job availability, income potential, and work-life balance. If you’re passionate about a field with limited job prospects or low pay, you’ll need to make a few practical decisions about how (or if) to pursue it. For example, if the low job demand is a temporary thing, you may choose to “wait it out” and see if the market improves. If your passion is teaching children, you’re choosing a relatively low-paying career, but there’s also a high demand for teachers–so if you decide to pursue that passion, you may just need to make some life adjustments so you can live within your means.

Cultivate Both Passion and Practicality

To truly balance passion and practicality, it’s essential to cultivate both. This might mean taking courses or gaining experience to make your passion more practical, or finding ways to inject passion into a practical career choice. For instance, if you’re passionate about helping people but also need a stable income, you could consider careers in healthcare, social work, or education which are practical and yet align with your passion.

Finally, between passion and practicality, it’s okay to prioritize one over the other at different times in your life. You might need to focus on practicality when starting out, then gradually incorporate more of your passions as you become more established in your career. Choosing a career path is a significant decision, but remember that it’s not set in stone. People often change careers, discover new passions, or find ways to make their current job more fulfilling. It’s during these times of change, growth, and transition that a career coach can be very helpful–and that’s why I’m here. If you want some guidance and support in figuring out a career or job that strikes that balance between passion and practicality, access my calendar to schedule a free, no obligation discovery call for yourself.

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Do You Need Additional Education or Training for Your Career? 5 Ways to Know

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In the ever-changing landscape of the job market, it’s crucial to stay ahead of the curve. One way to ensure your skills remain relevant and competitive is through continuous learning and development. For some professions (such as medicine), continuing education is an ongoing requirement to keeping your professional license current. But what about with other professions where the answer might not be cut-and-dried?

Deciding whether to invest time and resources into additional education or training can be a daunting task. After all, we all want to ensure we’re making the right choices for our career growth. Let’s explore five key signs that might indicate you need additional education or training for your career path.

1. Your Industry is Evolving Rapidly

If you’re in an industry that’s undergoing significant change due to technological advancements or regulatory updates, additional training might be necessary. For instance, the rise of AI and machine learning has transformed many industries, requiring professionals to acquire new skills to stay relevant. If you’re sensing the winds of change, some additional training can enable you to remain current–and in some cases, if you get educated in a niche, may even make you indispensable.

2. You’re Aiming for a Promotion

If you’re eyeing a higher position within your organization or field, acquiring advanced skills or qualifications could be a game-changer. Not only does it demonstrate to your superiors that you’re committed to growth and development, but it can also give you an edge over other candidates. You’ll be able to showcase newfound skills and knowledge, making you a more desirable choice for promotion or advancement.

3. You’re Considering a Career Switch

Transitioning into a new career often requires learning new skills or earning specific degrees or credentials. For example, moving from a sales role to a data analyst role may necessitate some additional training in data science and analytics.

4. You’re Not Getting Interviews

If your applications aren’t leading to interviews, it might be a sign that your skills aren’t aligning with job market needs. Review job descriptions in your field and identify any common requirements you’re missing. If need be, take some courses to fill in those gaps. This will not only help you land interviews but also give you the confidence to excel in them.

5. You’re Feeling Stagnant

If you’ve been in your current role for a while and haven’t experienced much growth or challenge, additional education or training can reignite your passion for your career. It can open up opportunities for advancement or even lead to a career change within your current organization.

Remember, investing in yourself is never a waste. Continuously learning and developing your skills will not only benefit your career but also enrich your life. If any of the signs above resonate with you, it’s worth considering additional education or training for your professional growth and success. Keep an open mind and embrace the opportunities to expand your knowledge and expertise.

In the meantime, if you’re looking for some extra help with a current job search or career switch, my passion as a career coach is to provide insight, encouragement, and accountability as you move toward your goals. If you’re unsure whether additional education needs to be part of your career path, that’s a conversation we can have together. To schedule a free 30-minute initial consultation, click here to access my calendar.

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Top 5 Things to Consider when Deciding to Change Careers

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If you are unhappy in your current career and are thinking about making a change, you’re not alone. In fact, research has shown that the average American employee will change careers a whopping 3-7 times during their working years! The reasons for this are as diverse as we are. Some of us long for more fulfilling work, others yearn for a better work-life balance, while some might be forced into a career shift due to circumstances beyond their control.

Whatever is motivating you at this moment, a new career is a big change–and change can be scary. The key to navigating change is to make a plan–because by doing so, you take control of the change. (It’s much easier, and more peaceful, to navigate a life change when you are driving the change rather than the change driving you.) That being said, let’s look at five considerations that should become part of your game plan when transitioning careers.

1. Take Inventory of Your Skills and Passions

This step involves looking past your work experience to the talents and interests that you have–the things that make you good at what you do, as well as the things that cause you to enjoy certain types of work. The idea here is to get to your root motivations–your “why”–because you want to reimagine these talents and skills of yours in a new context. Simon Sinek’s books Start with Why and Find Your Why can be a great place to start.

Remember, your abilities extend beyond what you’ve learned in your current job. Perhaps you’re a great organizer or have a knack for persuasion. These ‘soft’ skills are highly sought after in many industries. Try using online assessment tools or career tests to discover your strengths and passions.

2. Research the Job Market

By this, I don’t necessarily mean look at the economy–in other words, don’t worry so much about how many jobs are available right this moment. Those dynamics change, sometimes month to month. Rather, I mean research the job market as far as discovering new industries and roles that align with the interests and passions you discovered in the previous step. Just as an example, if you are not enjoying your current job in accounting, but you’re passionate about the technology you’re using and have excellent problem-solving skills, you might consider exploring new roles within IT or software development. Focus on the parts of your job that you do like and brainstorm how those skills might serve you in a new role.

3. Evaluate Your Education and Training

Your passions should inform your new career, but you may also need some additional practical training to qualify for a new role. If you’re interested in becoming a counselor but you have a background in marketing, you’ll likely need further education. Look into part-time study options or online courses that could make this transition smoother. If no additional training is needed but you lask experience, explore the possibility of finding a mentor within your field of interest who can show you the ropes a bit and possibly open some doors for you.

4. Develop a Financial Plan

Changing careers often means adjusting to a new income level, at least temporarily. Make sure to consider your financial situation and how a potential salary change may impact your lifestyle. It’s wise to save enough money to cover living expenses for a few month months before making the switch. If necessary, talk to an accountant or a financial advisor to help you develop a strategy so finances don’t become an unwanted stressor.

5. Seek Support

Finally, it’s much easier to navigate a life change when you have a good support system versus going it alone. Reach out to family and friends you trust, let them know your intentions, and allow them to be a source of encouragement when needed. There may also be people within your network who can provide advice or insight (although you may need to practice discretion with this if your current job could be jeopardized by your intended career shift). Most importantly, a career coach can provide invaluable guidance and support during this transition. They can offer insights, help you set realistic goals, and keep you accountable as you navigate this important change.

Transitioning to a new career is not without its challenges. You’ll likely face resistance, discouragement, and setbacks along the way. However, remember that growth often comes from stepping outside our comfort zone. Embrace the uncertainty, stay resilient, and keep your ultimate goal in sight. Remember…change happens. Take control!

If you need additional guidance in transitioning to your new career, I’m here to help. To schedule a free initial consultation, just click here to access my calendar.

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Tips for Making the Most of a Job Fair

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Let’s face it: the day-to-day hunt for job openings can be grueling. Even though most of the footwork these days is done online, the process of scouring LinkedIn, Indeed, and other job sites for open positions, then reaching out, customizing your resume, networking, following up, etc. can leave you feeling mentally exhausted.

That’s why a job fair can be such a breath of fresh air.

Job fairs are a goldmine for job seekers. They are events where employers, recruiters, and schools provide information about job openings and career opportunities. In other words, instead of researching companies and trying to find out if they have openings, you have access to a bunch of companies that are actively seeking new talent–all in one place. This is your chance to meet face-to-face with potential employers and make a lasting impression that a resume alone might not achieve.

A well-prepared job seeker can leave these events with valuable industry contacts, a better understanding of the job market, and even a potential job offer. However, making the most of a job fair is about more than just showing up. It requires preparation, finesse, and strategy. If you’re planning to attend a job fair in the upcoming weeks, here some practical and actionable tips to help you navigate the process more effectively.

Prepare in Advance

One of the key phrases in job hunting is “preparation is key,” and this couldn’t be more true when it comes to job fairs. Before heading out the door, make sure you take the following steps:

  • Research Participating Companies. Get a list of participating companies and learn about them. Understand their industry, products or services, and culture. Then make a “short list” of the companies that are most interesting to you or most aligned with your career goals. This will help you save time and energy at the fair because you’ll invest most of your time focused on the companies that matter most to you.
  • Prepare Relevant Questions. Show your interest and knowledge by asking relevant questions. This could range from queries about specific roles to the company culture and values. By engaging recruiters in this way, you not only showcase your curiosity and enthusiasm but also establish a meaningful connection that will help you be remembered after everyone goes home.
  • Be Prepared to Answer Questions. If a company rep is interested in you–or if they’re highly motivated to bring on new talent–they may offer to give you an impromptu interview on the spot. Be prepared for that eventuality. Come to the fair ready to answer at least a few basic questions about your experience, examples of your ability to solve problems and work with a team, etc.
  • Update Your Resume. Ensure your resume is up-to-date and aligns with the jobs you’re interested in. Bring multiple copies to hand out. A bit of a caveat here: most of my followers know I’m a stickler about customizing your resume to each job opening you apply to, but obviously that’s not a practical solution at a job fair. So my advice at job fairs is to have a few resumes handy, but only pass them out to employers who ask for them. Otherwise, just exchange basic contact information and schedule a follow-up so you can send a customized resume later.

Dress Professionally

First impressions matter at a job fair, especially since recruiters will be talking to lots of people. Dress as if you were going to a job interview. This not only demonstrates your seriousness about the job search but also sends a message to potential employers that you are dedicated, confident, and ready to make a positive impact.

Network, Network, Network

Job fairs are networking events. Engage in conversation with recruiters and other job seekers, exchange business cards, connect on social media (on the spot, if possible), and send an email following up afterward. Even if you don’t find your dream job at the fair, you never know who might provide a valuable connection.

Follow Up

You’d be surprised at how many job fair attendees don’t bother to follow up with recruiters, instead just waiting to be contacted by the companies. This presents a key opportunity for you to get an edge over your competition and jump to the head of the line, so to speak. Employers like people who show initiative. So within a couple of days after the fair, follow up with the recruiters you met. Send a personalized email expressing your interest in their company and the positions they have available. If you haven’t already handed them a resume, send them a version of the resume tailored to the company. This keeps the communication line open and increases your chances of landing an interview.

If you’re looking for a bit of additional support in your job search, I am here to help. Personalized career coaching can help you navigate the job search landscape, from crafting the perfect resume to acing interviews. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you’re feeling stuck or unsure about your next steps. For a free initial conversation with me, just schedule yourself a time on  my calendar here.

(Photo courtesy of the City of Marietta. CC License)

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Bounce Back Stronger: Constructive Ways to Recover After Job Loss

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There’s no way of getting around it: losing a job can be a jarring experience. It doesn’t matter whether you were laid off from budget cuts, forced into “retirement” due to a company merger (like I was), or simply fired. It all hurts the same. It’s not just the loss of income, but it’s also a blow to your confidence and self-worth. On top of all that, you may feel like the clock is ticking on your finances and you need to find another job pronto–all while feeling like you’ve had your legs kicked out from under you.

I get it. But let’s put this in perspective. You’re not the first person to lose a job, and you certainly won’t be the last. In fact, there’s no guarantee that this won’t happen to you again at some point in the future. It happens. The key to bouncing back after this is the choices you make now. So let’s talk a bit about how to process your current situation so you can recover and start looking at the next chapter of your career.

Dealing with the Emotional Impact

I’m going to make a suggestion here that may seem counterintuitive, especially if you’re feeling financial pressure–but it’s a necessary first step to regaining your confidence:

Before you launch into a new job search, give yourself a minute to heal.

Trust me on this. You’re dealing with some negative feelings, and you’ve got to deal with these feelings before you throw yourself back into the job hunt. Why? Because if you’re feeling low and doubting yourself, it’s going to make finding a new job harder. It can mess with your motivation, cloud your decisions, and even trip you up in interviews.

I’m simplifying this a little for the sake of brevity, but I see recovering from job loss as a two-step process:

STEP ONE: Let yourself grieve.

Job loss is just that: a LOSS. It’s not as profound as the loss of a loved one, say, but it’s a loss just the same. It’s natural to grieve a loss–in fact, it’s essential. So allow yourself to grieve. Let yourself feel all those emotions, then start working through them. Journal, talk it through with friends and family, or even see a therapist, if necessary. There aren’t any rules here–whatever works for you and helps you process the grief.

STEP TWO: Realign your perspective.

Remember, losing your job doesn’t mean you’ve failed or that you’re not good enough. You’re still the same talented, capable person you were before. These things happen; it’s not always a reflection of your abilities or value as an employee. If mistakes were made, don’t beat yourself up over them–just learn from them. Begin to reflect on your skills, your talents, and your positive qualities. If necessary, get in front of the mirror and start speaking positive things to yourself. (Yes, out loud.) Remember who you are and what you can bring to the table. It may seem forced at first, but with a little time, these exercises will help you regain your confidence so you can get back out there.

Practical Steps towards Recovery

Once you’ve had time to process emotionally, it’s time to get practical. Here are some steps to help you regain control of your career destiny:

  • Review your finances: Assess your financial situation and create a budget. This can help alleviate some stress and give you a clear picture of how long you can comfortably look for a job.
  • Update your resume: Make sure your resume is up-to-date and reflects all your skills and experiences. Consider hiring a professional resume writer if you’re unsure about how to present your credentials effectively.
  • Reach out to your network: Reach out to your contacts — friends, former colleagues, mentors. Let them know you’re looking for new opportunities. Don’t forget about networking events and online platforms like LinkedIn.
  • Upskill: Use this time to learn new skills or improve existing ones. There are many free or low-cost online courses available in almost every field.
  • Practice self-care: Exercise regularly, eat healthy, find a mindfulness practice you’re comfortable with, and ensure you’re getting enough sleep. This will not only help manage stress but also ensure you’re at your best when opportunities come along.

Staying Motivated in Your Job Search

Job hunting can sometimes be a long and, at times, discouraging process. Here are some tips to stay motivated:

  • Set daily or weekly goals. This could be as simple as applying to a certain number of jobs per day or spending a set amount of time on your job search.
  • Celebrate small wins. Got a call back? Landed an interview? Celebrate these small victories. They’re signs of progress!
  • Stay positive. Keep reinforcing those positive messages to yourself. Remember, rejection is a part of the process, not a reflection of your worth.

Losing a job can be tough, but it’s not the end of your career. With the right approach and mindset, you can turn this setback into an opportunity for growth. As always, I’m here to help you take the next steps toward the job or career you’re dreaming of. To schedule a free, no-obligation consultation, just click here to access my calendar.

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Congratulations! You’ve Graduated College!…Now What?

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Earning a college degree is no small feat, so if you’re a brand-new college grad…kudos to you! Whether or not you know what’s next for you, you can take pride in knowing you’ve completed an important step for your life and career.

At the same time, graduation day can be both exhilarating and terrifying. And for many, the day AFTER graduation is more terrifying than exhilarating. What now? you wonder.

If you’re like most college students, you’ve probably been holding onto the idea that the job recruiters were going to be waiting for you at the doors to your school with open arms, rolling out the red carpet and handing you some metaphorical golden key to launch your career. While some students indeed find good jobs and internships right out of college, the harsh reality is this doesn’t happen for nearly as many students as it used to. So…if you’ve come through graduation with no job prospects and no sense of direction, don’t beat yourself up. You’re actually in good company.

The good news is that even though the path to a career might not be laid out straight before you, there are practical steps you can take to launch yourself into the job market and land your first “real” job, preferably within your area of study. Let’s talk about some practical tips to get you started.

Refine Your Career Goals

When you chose your major, you might have had a good idea what kind of field you wanted to work in and what you wanted your profession to be. Now that you’ve graduated, it’s time to revisit those goals and make sure they’re aligned with your current desires. It’s not unusual for career goals to evolve as you move through college–in fact, a surprising number of people land lucrative careers that have little or nothing to do with what they studied in college. If you’re still committed to the career path you initially chose, that’s great–you’re ahead of the game. But if you’re not, it’s okay to keep your options open.

Start by defining what you want in your career. What type of job aligns with your degree and aspirations? What industries are you interested in? What other types of work does your degree qualify you for? Refining these career goals will help guide your job search and application process.

Perfect Your Resume

Your resume is the first impression you make on potential employers, and in many cases, it’s the only thing standing between you and a job interview invitation. So make sure it’s a strong one. Highlight relevant coursework, internships, and projects that align with the job you’re applying for. Remember, your resume should be concise, professional, and free of errors. And since resumes are so easy to edit nowadays, I recommend sending customized versions of your resume to every employer–not revamping the whole thing, but tailoring specific details to emphasize what the company may be looking for.

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter

A well-written cover letter can set you apart from other applicants. It’s your chance to tell your story, express your interest in the role, and detail why you’re the best candidate. As with the resume, tailor and personalize each cover letter to the specific job and company, showing that you’ve done your research and are genuinely interested.

Master Online Job Search Platforms

Online job platforms like LinkedIn, Indeed, and Glassdoor can be powerful tools in your job search. (My favorite is LinkedIn because it also serves as a networking site.) Create a professional profile, upload your polished resume, and start searching for jobs that match your career goals. Use keywords related to your field to narrow down the search. Look among your LinkedIn connections for people who may already work in those jobs, then reach out to them to see if they can open some doors for you. If you don’t have connections inside the workplaces you’re interested in, try to find employees there, connect with them on LinkedIn, and strike up a conversation. You might be surprised at the opportunities that could open up there.

Build and Work on Your Network

Networking is a key part of the job search process–in fact, in my view, it’s just as important as your resume and interview skills, if not more so. Most jobs are landed through connections, not through job boards. Invest time in connecting with people in your field and create relationships with professionals who may be able to help you get that first break. Reach out to alumni, former professors, coaches, or employers who can provide references. Don’t just network on LinkedIn (although that’s a powerful tool); look for in-person opportunities, as well. Join professional organizations related to your career goals; attend events and meetings where you can meet other like-minded professionals or potential employers.

Don’t Underestimate the Power of an Internship

Many college grads often overlook internships as a viable job prospect, but they can be invaluable for gaining experience and opening up career opportunities. If you’re just starting out in your field, even unpaid (or very low-paid) internships can offer valuable training and experience.

Prepare for Interviews

Once you start landing interviews, it’s crucial to prepare. Research the company, rehearse common interview questions, and think of examples that showcase your skills and experiences. Remember, an interview is a two-way street; come prepared with thoughtful questions about the role and company.

Follow Up

After an interview, send a thank-you note expressing your continued interest in the role. This shows professionalism and could set you apart from other candidates.

Stay Positive and Patient

Perhaps the most important thing to keep in mind as you embark on your job search: stay positive and be patient. Job searches can often take months or even longer, so don’t let discouragement take over. If your financial situation requires you to live at home with your folks for awhile, don’t be discouraged over this–in today’s economy, more than half of young adults either still live with their parents or return home. Be patient with yourself through this process. Be persistent and consistent, and you’ll make progress toward your goals.

As a career coach, one of my favorite things to do is to help college graduates land their first real job. If you are freshly graduated and don’t know what to do next–or if you feel like you’re floundering and need some support–I’m here to help. Just access my calendar here and schedule yourself a free initial consultation.

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New Year, New Career (Part 4: Leveraging Networking and Connections)

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Over the past few blog posts, we’ve been specifically discussing strategies and pathways for people who don’t just want to find a “new job,” but to switch careers entirely. If you’ve been tracking with me from the beginning, hopefully by now you’ve made your decision to pursue a new career; done a personal inventory (including identifying your talents, finding your “why,”) to reimagine how these might inform your career path; and begun taking steps toward filling in any educational gaps you may have. Now, it’s time to build on this groundwork you’ve been laying–and one of the most important ways to do that is by developing and utilizing a strong network.

I’m going to spend a bit of time on this topic because networking is one of the most powerful tools in your metaphorical toolbox to get your new career started–whether you’re finding clients for your own business or networking to find job openings. I emphasize networking highly when helping clients find new jobs in their chosen field–but it’s just as vital a tool when launching a brand-new caeer. Here’s why:

85 percent of all jobs are filled through networking. (Hubspot, 2019)

Let that sink in a moment because that’s a LOT of jobs. The vast majority of job positions are filled, not by answering job postings, cold calling, or blasting out one’s resume, but through connections. Not only that, but according to CNBC, 70 percent of job listings aren’t even publicly posted–so the only way to find them is through networking!

Convinced, yet?

So for this final post in the blog series, let’s talk about practical and creative ways for you to build and nurture a solid network of connections and utilize that to find opportunities to launch yourself on your new path.

Start with Your Existing Network

Before branching out and forming new relationships, take some time to assess your current network. This includes friends, family members, classmates, professors, coworkers, and acquaintances, both in-person and online. Identify individuals who may have valuable connections or insights into your target industry, and make it a priority to reconnect with them.

Attend Industry Events to Expand Your Network Strategically

Industry events, such as conferences, seminars, workshops, and networking mixers, are excellent opportunities to meet professionals in your chosen field. When attending these events, make sure to bring business cards, practice your elevator pitch, and most of all, engage in meaningful conversations. Don’t forget to follow up with new connections after the event to solidify your relationship. (More on that in a minute.)

Join Professional Associations

Professional associations offer a wealth of resources, including networking events, educational opportunities, and industry-specific job boards. By joining these organizations, you have the opportunity to surround yourself with industry experts while gaining access to valuable contacts and demonstrating your commitment to your chosen field.

Learn the Art of the Follow-Up

It’s not enough just to meet new people at networking and industry events. Without a second and third contact, most people simply won’t have the mental power to remember you. So after making a new connection, particularly one with career-building potential, be sure to follow up with them. Send a thank-you note, connect on social media, or schedule a coffee date to continue building the relationship. If you’ve connected with them on line, regularly engage with your connections by commenting on their posts, sharing interesting articles, or reaching out to them with questions or updates.

Leverage Social Media to Connect with Professionals Online

Anyone who knows me knows I’m a huge fan of LinkedIn when it comes to making business connections–but these principles will work on any other social platforms you join. Follow industry influencers, join LinkedIn groups related to your field, engage in relevant conversations, and share content that showcases your expertise. Optimize your LinkedIn profile by adding a professional photo, crafting a compelling headline, and highlighting your skills and accomplishments.

Volunteer

If you’re looking to transition into a new field, consider volunteering or freelancing to gain valuable experience, demonstrate your skills, and build your portfolio. In addition to enhancing your resume, these opportunities can lead to new connections and possible job offers.

Request Informational Interviews with Industry Professionals

An informational interview is an informal conversation with someone in your target industry that helps you learn more about their career path, company, and industry trends. Identify some leaders in your field and reach out to request an informational interview. When you meet, come prepared with thoughtful questions. Be sure to send a thank-you note afterward to express your gratitude and maintain the relationship. Not only can this technique give you valuable insights into your new field, but in some cases you can find a helpful mentor. (Sometimes it only takes one influential person to open a whole range of doors for you.)

Give Back

Networking is a two-way street. As you work to build your connections, be prepared to offer value in return. Share job leads, provide introductions, or lend your expertise to others in your network. By being a supportive and valuable contact, you’ll strengthen your relationships and encourage others to reciprocate.

Nurture Your Connections: Build Long-Term Relationships

Networking is not just about making new connections; it’s also about nurturing existing relationships to build long-term relationships. Stay in touch with your contacts, congratulate them on their successes, and offer support when needed. By fostering genuine connections, you’ll create a network that can support your career growth for years to come.

This all may seem like a lot to remember, but as you get started, much of it becomes intuitive. After all, what you’re doing here is forming relationships, and once you get past the learning curve, relationships become a natural outflow of who you are. In this case, you’re forming relationships that can be helpful and even strategic for your career–but even when making strategic connections, those relationships can and should be genuine. Keep at it, and things should quickly become second-nature to you.

As always, if you want some one-on-one help in navigating your career change, not only can I help—I can relate. I know firsthand the excitement (and terror) of launching a new career, and I know how to help you find your way to other side of this life-changing transition. For a free, no-obligation consultation, just click here to access my calendar.

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New Year, New Career (Part 3: Filling in Educational Gaps)

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In previous posts (see here and here), we’ve been focusing on those who may be wanting to launch a whole new career in 2023, and the various ways to go about it. We’ve done the 10,000-foot view of the process, and we’ve talked about taking a personal inventory of your skills and passions to find your “why”, and how to let those things inform your new career path. Now, let’s assume you’ve settled on a new career path for yourself–you know what you want to do. It’s time to take some tangible steps toward that goal–beginning with revisiting your education and credentials, reviewing whether you have any gaps to fill, and figuring out how to fill those gaps.

Identifying Your Educational Gaps

The good news is, if you’ve followed the previous step of taking a personal inventory, there’s a good chance you’ve discovered you already have most of the skills and abilities necessary for your new career. That’s because most of us tend to move in the general direction of our passions throughout life, even if we don’t know that’s what we’re doing. It’s rare that someone would have to start over from the beginning with their education (although it does happen, and that’s okay, too). But most people aren’t starting from nothing, and that’s why we refer to it as an “education gap.” You most likely just have to fill in some spaces, update your credentials, get a little additional training, etc. Do some preliminary research, and ask yourself the following questions:

  • What additional credentials or certifications are required for your new career?
  • What additional credentials or certifications would be helpful for your new career?
  • What credentials are employers looking for in your new career path?

The idea here is to identify what additional training is required versus what training is simply optional–and then you can decide how to proceed.

Closing the Gaps

Once you’ve identified what educational gaps need to be filled, the next step is to determine how to fill them. Depending on your specific career choice and the requirements for that field, there may be a variety of options available to you. You may decide to pursue a degree from an accredited college or university, take online classes, complete certification programs (especially if they are offered in your area of specialty), join professional organizations and become certified, and/or attend conferences. There’s no one-size-fits-all solution here; it’s all about what works best for you and the new career you’ve chosen to pursue.

Set Realistic Goals for How Much Time and Effort (and Money) You Can Invest

Let’s face it: Filling educational gaps takes time (and usually money). You need to be realistic about how much time and effort you are willing to put into attaining the necessary knowledge. Can you realistically set aside a few hours each week? Is there anything in your day-to-day life currently that needs adjustment or can be dropped entirely? When you’re starting out, you may feel motivated to jump in with both feet and immerse yourself in study–but if you are still at your current job (or need to work part-time to keep the bills paid), that’s probably not a realistic goal. Flames that burn hot tend to burn out more quickly–and you don’t want to burn out. Pace yourself and set goals that are manageable and attainable so you don’t get tired and discouraged. It’s better to start small and take a little more time to earn your credentials than to overload yourself and eventually quit.

As for the cost…if the cost of schooling in tuition is challenging for you, there may be financial aid options available If you’re training to start your own business, research to see if there are any available grants you might be eligible for (for example, many organizations actively seek to fund women and minorities who are starting businesses, and you can use at least some of that money for education purposes). Contact the financial aid department at schools where your credentials are offered to see what options they have for you. As the saying goes, where there’s a will, there’s a way.

Seek Advice and Mentoring from Professionals in Your Field of Interest

Getting advice from someone who is already in the field you want to enter can help you develop a better and more realistic plan for filling your educational gaps. Talking with professionals in the industry can give you insight into what it’s really like to work in that career and what employers are looking for. They may even be able to offer suggestions on which schools offer the best programs, or which certifications will best set you up for success. Even more than that–finding a mentor in your field of interest can greatly accelerate your ramp-up time. And sometimes, simply having someone who understands what you’re going through can be a great source of encouragement.

Speaking of mentoring…even as you’re working through these steps, embarking on a career change alone can be quite daunting. As a career coach (who has also switched careers), I can provide even more insights and one-to-one guidance than you’ll find alone in this process. For a free, no-obligation consultation, just click here to access my calendar.

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New Year, New Career (Part 2: Taking a Personal Inventory for Career Success)

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If you’re like most people, once you’ve made the decision to embark on a whole new career, the first emotion you feel may be one of excitement and hope…followed quickly by a sense of terror. What have I done? you ask yourself. What am I doing?

Sound familiar?

Relax. (I know…easier said than done.) This is probably going to be stressful, but the emotions you’re feeling are completely natural. Making a major career change is certainly daunting. The best way to get past this feeling is to start making a plan. And that begins with what I call taking a personal inventory. With this process, you’re going to do some internal work to discover your “personal assets”–exploring your skills, your passions, and your motivations so that you can reimagine how these assets can fit into a new career. (Note: this step is primarily for people who have left their current job or are planning to do so, but they don’t really know what they want to do next. If you already have a good idea about your next career and why you’re making the change, this blog will be informative, but not essential. You’ve already done this work.)

Ready? Here we go…

List Your Strengths

The first thing to do with a personal inventory is to compile a list your strengths. Here are a few questions to ask yourself and get you thinking:

  • What are your known talents?
  • What are your acquired skills?
  • What do you consider your personality strengths?
  • What successes at your previous jobs are you most proud of?
  • How do you uniquely solve problems or come up with creative solutions?

Think about what makes you unique and stand out from other working professionals. Consider any experiences or skills you have that could be valuable in the workplace. For example, if you’re seeking a leadership role, list any experiences you’ve had in the past that demonstrate your ability to lead teams. If you don’t have much experience in the area yet, think about soft skills like communication, problem-solving, and critical thinking that could be beneficial in any role.

At this point, don’t downplay anything. Every skill and talent matters! Writing down a thorough list of your strengths will help to create the basis for finding a new career.

List Your Passions

While the previous step focuses on what you can do, this next step focuses on what you want to do. Among the talents and skills you listed in the previous step, do any stand out as something you love to do more than the others?

Your passions are just as important as your strengths when taking an inventory of yourself, and possibly even more so. What drives and motivates you? What topics do you find interesting? List anything that comes to mind—even if it seems far-fetched at first—as these can highlight potential industries or roles that may be right for you. You may even find unexpected connections between passions and potential career paths once everything is laid out on paper.

Find Your “Why”

This one is going to take some work, and it may not come overnight…but it’s well worth the effort. With this step, you’re going to review your passions and strengths and try to narrow things down even further to find your core motivation–the thing that gets you up in the morning, so to speak.

Your “why.”

I’ve talked about this before, but it especially bears repeating in the context of finding a new career path. Most people know what they do, but they don’t know why they do it. Finding your “why” is key to identifying a career path that you love, one that you’re going to stick with–one that feels more like a life calling than a job. For this step, I recommend re-reading this blog post, as well as working your way through Simon Sinek’s books Start with Why and Find Your Why. Doing this work should start pointing you in the direction of a career path that is more aligned with your “why.” (For many people, it also shows them why they weren’t happy in their previous career.)

View Your Personal Assets in a New Light

Once you have listed your talents and passions, and once you’ve at least begun the process of finding your “why,” it’s time to take a fresh look at these personal assets. Ask yourself why these qualities matter to you, both personally and professionally. Why do they make sense within the context of a certain industry or job function? This is where things get really interesting–because you’ll likely begin to see options for how these abilities and motivations can fit into a new and different career that you perhaps never even thought of. (I often use myself as a personal example here: when I made my career change, I discovered that the passions and skills that fueled my decades-long career in human resources would serve me even better in my current role as a career coach!)

Believe it or not, once you get through these steps, you’ll already be well on your way to discovering a new career for yourself. In the upcoming blog posts in this series, we’ll go through some more practical steps for setting yourself up for your new career. In the meantime, this process can be challenging, and it’s typically much easier when you have someone to help guide you through the steps. If you’d like to explore the option of getting some career coaching, that’s what I’m here for. Just click here to access my calendar and set up a free 30-minute initial consultation.

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New Year, New Career (Part 1: Navigating a Major Career Change)

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As we enter a brand-new year, many of us naturally take stock of where we are in our career path. If you’re between jobs but you love what you do, finding the job you want is really just about finding the right opening and positioning yourself as the best person for that job. But what if you are looking for something completely different?

What if your New Year’s goal was “Launch a whole new career?”

I’m not going to lie: changing careers is not an easy prospect. (If it were, everyone would be changing careers at the drop of a hat.) It requires courage, and a bit of moxie, to make a major life choice to leave one career path for another. But if you are dissatisfied in life and ready for change, it can also be one of the most exciting and rewarding decisions you’ll ever make.

That being said, making a successful career transition requires more than just closing your eyes and leaping of the metaphorical cliff. It takes careful planning and consideration to pull this off well, examining all the angles before diving headfirst into something completely new. We’ll cover the following steps more in detail in upcoming blogs, but just as an overview…if you’re looking to make a radical career change this year, here are some tips on how to do it right. 

Take a Personal Inventory

If you already know what you want to do for a new career and why you want to do it, you can probably skim over this step. But if you are fuzzy about the details or you don’t really know what your next move is going to be, this first step is absolutely critical.

No matter how different you think your new career will be from your old job, there will be at least one common denominator between them: YOU. Your skills, your passion, your point of view–these will all follow you into the next career and inform your choices. That’s why any time you’re considering a career transition, the best place to start is by understanding your current skill set and how it can be applied elsewhere. Take a step back and look at yourself objectively—what marketable skills have you acquired over the years that could help you in another career? What are your strengths? What are your talents? What are you passionate about? What makes you tick? (Reviewing my blog on “What Is Your Why?” may be helpful here.) Almost any new career you launch will involve a reimagining of your current gifts, talents, and passions–you’ll just be using them in a different way. This analysis will give you important insight into which jobs may be best suited for your abilities and interests. 

Make a Plan for Training & Education 

Once you’ve got an idea of what your desired career path is going to be, you may need additional education or training. Research degree programs and certifications, look into online courses, or consider taking classes at your local community college or university. Make sure that whatever program or courses you choose will match up with what employers are looking for in the field that interests you most. If you’re aiming for a specific position, pay attention to the job description—it will give you a good idea as to what classes you need to take or what credentials you need in order to qualify for the job. You’ll also want to investigate whether there are any additional steps you need to take (such as passing exams or getting professionally licensed) before launching into job applications. 

Network and Build Connections 

Networking is essential when making any kind of career shift — even more so when making such a drastic move between industries or job roles. Leverage your existing contacts as well as professional associations related to the industry you want to move into; this could include attending conferences or seminars or getting involved with related groups on LinkedIn or other social media outlets. In addition to providing helpful information about potential opportunities, networking is also important because it helps build relationships, and those connections can prove invaluable down the line.  

As exciting as it may be to consider heading in a whole new direction career-wise, let’s face it: a career shift is a major change, and change can be scary. But the key to navigating this change, as I’ve said over and over to my clients, is to have courage and make a plan. Change is inevitable; fear is optional. Being proactive in your approach to a career change will help you have more control, and therefore less fear. That’s why I always say, “Change happens: take control!”

Whether you’re just looking for a new job or navigating a major career change, if you want some support, someone to help guide you through the process, that’s why I’m here. Start the new year off right with the coaching you need so you can land the job you want. Just click here to access my calendar and set up a free 30-minute initial consultation.

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