What is the biggest obstacle in today's job market for those looking to change careers?
While business is certainly better than it was the last couple of years, the recovery mode has still not facilitated any flexibility as it relates to skillset. Employers are still seeking "round peg round hole" candidates that fit the exact technical competencies along with the right personality for their cultures. Some candidates whose careers have not been laser focused in one industry or have too much job movement are still struggling to find the next right career.
What is the best way to make the transition from one career to another?
For any area where you want to achieve success, you need a plan. Candidates need to be well-educated about their professional competencies and personal passions, putting together a targeted plan for seeking a new career. Research on an organization's value proposition, culture and advancement opportunities is also critical to ensure the next move is a good one.
What is the best way to find a career that you love? Why is this so important?
We all, in one form or another, have a bucket list; the list of all the things we want to accomplish before we "kick the bucket". I suggest that much like this list, a candidate needs to make two lists. One would be the things they are really good at. The other would be the things they are passionate about doing. This is not a ten minute exercise, but a true reflection of both items. Once this is completed, I suggest they marry the lists. Where's the crossover? What type of career lends itself to your gifts as well as what makes you happy? Happiness in one's career is not overrated. Not only does a person perform better on a daily basis, but their peers benefit as well and this becomes quickly noted by superiors. Loving what you do makes going to work every day a pleasure vs. something approached with dread.
How can people make the career they already have more interesting or gratifying?
There are two approaches. One is to engage more with like-minded people within the business. People are elevated or deflated by people. Surrounding yourself with people who uplift you, can motivate you to perform better. I also recommend the passion test. Figure out what piece of the work you love and excel at, and then demonstrate your ability to perform. Create a "space" for yourself as the expert by taking initiative, looking for new revenue streams, developing a new product etc.
What is the biggest reason that people want to change careers?
This one is easy. It is always other people. People always leave people, they don't leave companies. Someone inside is causing angst, changing the rules, micromanaging or simply difficult to please. Regardless of the scenario, it always circles back to people.
