I was stuck in a job I’d grown tired of. I made the mistake of getting another job that was exactly the same but with a different employer. I should have made a better plan. I didn’t address the real issues.
Early in my career I worked as a Laboratory Technician. I enjoyed a lot about it – the workplace, the people as well as a daily balance between the theory and practical aspects of lab work.
I didn’t hate it, but it had just become …. boring. I knew I needed a change, but what was I going to do? I’d qualified in the area and had four years of experience, so I didn’t want to jump off into a totally different direction. (Little did I know).
Instead, I opted to apply for another job, doing the same thing, with a different employer. I thought that would fix my feeling of being unfulfilled. It was a good change and for a short time I was enthusiastic, able to see where I could improve processes and workflow as well as introduce new techniques. The momentum lasted about 18 months and by then, I was back, coasting along the boring groove again. I stayed another two and a half years before I made another career jump.
If I’d met with a certified Career Development Practitioner, I might have got to the real issue about what I really wantedto do, rather than just change the brand name on my work shirt. It could have saved me time, false starts, and helped me clarify my longer-term direction.
Now, as a Career Consultant, I meet with people in the same situation who need some clarification around their career direction. Sometimes they feel stuck. Sometimes they’re jaded. Sometimes they’re bored, or their lives have changed dramatically, and they need a new role that will accommodate their lifestyle. At that point, it’s not a matter of just helping them apply for a new job. Don’t get me wrong – a winning resume is critical, as long as you’re sure of your direction. But what about when you don’t know what to do?
We identify who you are
Yes, some good old self-reflection. You’ve probably been too busy looking ahead to look inside, so we start by mapping the path you’ve been on, what you’ve done and what drives and motivates you. It’s hard to reflect on this alone, which is why I take time to provide some objective input. I have a straightforward approach with my people, I’m honest and realistic and will give you clear feedback as you tell me your story. If you ask your mates, your partner or your parents about career ideas you might not get a really straight answer (but you knew that already).
Look at options
So now you have a renewed understanding of who you are and what is really important to you, in life and work. This is unique to everyone. You have various aspects to consider when making your life/work decisions. Maybe you need to consider your finances, your health, your childrens’ education, your caring responsibilities, and location. So, along with those factors we consider options for work that aligns with your life priorities.
Identify any gaps
So, you’ve got an idea of what you could do for work. Now we look at any gaps that are stopping you from jumping into it tomorrow. Do you need more experience? A licence or ticket? A qualification? We see what the industry needs and how you can go about being fully prepared so you’re moving towards your goal. This is where I provide advice and links to various study courses, micro-credentials, university courses, volunteer opportunities, Vocational TAFE / VET courses and qualifications that you can complete over a short or longer timeframe to plug those gaps.
Make a Career plan for your future
Okay, hold up a minute. When I say we “make a plan” it is never set in concrete. Yes, I know you really want some certainty but, if living through a global pandemic has taught us anything, it’s that we have to hold all our plans very lightly. Things are subject to change at a moment’s notice. A good plan means you have contingencies and options, not just ONE path to follow. It’s how we need to do life. Even when you’re driving to work you have to know how to detour around a temporary roadblock to still get to your destination. That’s the kind of plan we make – one that points you in a direction but will let you flex along the way.
Think about it…
An investment of time now can help you get clear and set you on a course for the future. You’ll probably sleep a lot easier, knowing that you’ve got options and are going in the direction that’s right for you. Your career is dynamic, changing, it’s always a work in progress. YOU have to take charge of the direction and development for your future. It doesn’t just happen.
Contact me by email or phone if you’d like to stop marking time and start the process. You’ll discover more about yourself and how you can get ‘unstuck’ and ready for your next move. I work with people across Australia and overseas via Video, phone or in person. And yes, I can even help with your resume – when you’re at that stage. Contact me for a confidential chat to see how I can help you.
Talk soon,
Louise Morrison
GradCertCareerDevelopment