Career Leap – How to Make it Happen
A career takes time, effort, connections, and reputation to build. Historically, we have taken immense pride in the loyalty and tenure of the roles we have held and to the organisations we have worked for. Slowly and often passively, relying on our leaders to direct or guide us to the next stage of our careers. It is fair to say, “Times Have Changed”! The past 20 years have seen a significant shift in the way most of us view our career progression and the level of support we seek and expect from our employers. It is more and more evident, that Australian workers are taking full responsibility for their career development and career aspirations. Climbing the career ladder, not by one rung, but by 2 at a time! What inspires each of us to make the climb varies and is often attributed to several motives.
A recent Seek study has revealed that 57% of Australian candidates are looking for a career change in 2022. Of that 57%, 43% will look to change careers in the next 12 months. The same study conducted by Seek, identified the top 3 reasons for career change as; more learning potential, wanting to perform more fulfilling work and interested in pursuing their passion. I’m banking that the above findings resonate with many of you.
So…… What Do You Need to Consider Before Taking Your Career Leap?
1. Know your strengths and be aware of the skills and knowledge that you may be lacking in. This is important to weigh up as you look at job suitability. In saying that, great employers will support their employees in developing their skills and knowledge. So don’t be hesitant to back yourself in applying your strengths whilst learning new skills.
2. Leading on from the above point, don’t be afraid of a challenge! One of my mentors over the years advised me that if you are moving to a role, you can do easily, you will become bored and complacent quickly. Always look for the role that offers a challenge, professional growth, and opportunity.
3. Spend time realising what motivates you. What gets you up every morning, excited to perform your role? On the flip side of this, you might want to acknowledge what just doesn’t do it for you too! We invest a lot of time and energy in our work. It is critical that the desires outweigh the unwanted.
4. Given the hybrid nature of our work, it is vital to appreciate the future of work is not always about the place or space we work from, but what we do, how we do it and who we interact with. So be clear about how you work most favourably and don’t be afraid to investigate how your potential employer leads and manages a hybrid work environment. This leads me to my final point…….
5. Do some homework on the types of organisations and leaders you would love to work for. Are they aligned to your values and ethics? Are their products and/or services something you believe in or are passionate about? Do they invest in their employee’s career development and progression?
By addressing the above, you have set yourself up nicely to leap into the next phase of your career. If you are finding yourself deliberating on the ledge for too long, you may find career coaching a useful tool to help you explore opportunities, think outside the box and support you to take that career leap of faith you have been eagerly pursuing.