- Sylvie G.
- Wednesday, February 03, 2021
Whether you are unemployed, underemployed or looking to transition to a different occupation, 2021 can be your opportunity for a fresh start. It will require a mindful, methodical approach as there is no magic formula guaranteed to reap instantaneous results.
The process towards a new career path will involve intentional self-reflection, research and application on your part. Consider it a journey to gather knowledge and “light bulb” moments. And, because we often don’t know what we don’t know, it is empowering to ask yourself strong self-reflecting questions to flush out your inner desires in order to create your customized pathway.
But, no worries. As someone who has reimagined her work life many times, I can assure you that there are effective career and time management strategies that will guide you through the process. Here is a results oriented and dare I say, fun approach to address four key career development areas that will prompt, ignite and energize you towards a fulfilling future vision.
DISCOVER
What are you passionate about?
When does time pass quickly?
What sets you apart from the others?
What value do you bring to the company?
Craft a Vision: This way of thinking is a proven technique that will help you create a focused and targeted career roadmap. The more you are driven by your strengths, interests, and values, the more you will persevere.
- Take an interest assessment, such as “My Next Move,” and review your results with a Career Coach. Understanding your specific interest code serves as an insightful guide since all occupations have codes based on years of scientific research and the Holland Method.
- Create a Vision Board. – Vision boards are words, pictures or other visual components that you arrange to reflect your career goals and dreams. It doesn’t require artistic talent. It’s a mindful, tactile project that is done over a period of time. Definitely, worth the effort!
DEFINE
What is your brand statement?
How does your brand benefit the employer?
Which employer is the best fit for your brand?
Does your brand have growth potential?
Create an Action Plan: Write down short term and long-term goals that will guide you in making your vision board a reality.
- Break down each goal into manageable daily, weekly and monthly tasks by implementing S.M.A.R.T goals.
- Develop your brand to attract opportunities and research potential employers that resonate with your vision. Richland Databases are great resources:Data Axel Reference Solutions, Career Cruising and Reference USA
PRESENT
How will you communicate your unique skills?
What marketing tools will make you stand out?
Does your résumé, cover letter, and on-line presence attract employers?
Generate effective marketing materials: Everyone is unique and has transferable knowledge, skills, and abilities (KSA) garnered from previous experiences that can be applied toward a new career vision. Understanding your transferable KSA’s is key to making sure you stand out as the ideal candidate to an employer.
- Write down the transferable skills you wish to incorporate 80% of the time in your new position. This will keep you focused and build confidence.
- Apply transferable skills to strengthen your résumé, cover letters and on-line presence.
PROMOTE
Are you networking to find employers?
Are you introducing yourself to the decision makers?
Compile contact lists for networking and informational interviews: Work smarter not harder by spending time on job-search activities in proportion to how productive they are. For example, 50 percent or more of job-seekers find jobs through networking opportunities, not sitting behind a computer.
- Create a LinkedIn Profile and develop a daily action plan to build two-way relationships by sharing ideas and resources. Access LinkedIn tutorials on Lynda with Libraries with your library card.
- Develop strong interviewing techniques. Refer to our Richland Library Blogs: Interviewing: Do you have any Questions for Us? Illegal Questions and How to Manage Them
As you can see, it is possible to reimagine your work life. Plus, you don’t have to go it alone! Consider partnering and collaborating with a Career Coach for all aspects of your 2021 career makeover.
Need more Career Coaching information?
Set up a virtual meeting with one of our Career Coaches through the Book a Learning Coach form or by calling 803-929-3400. We will contact you to schedule an appointment. Our team provides help with interviewing skills, résumés, interest/skills assessments, and more. Follow Richland Library on LinkedIn for career development tips and tidbits.
