My husband and I often talk about the concept of moving ‘to’ something versus simply moving away ‘from’ something. It is our way of focusing on a healthy & fulfilling future, instead of dwelling on a not so positive past. Are you in an unhealthy relationship? If so, think about what you want to move ‘to’ versus just getting away ‘from’ your current state. It will have you stop and think about what you are working towards as you begin to chart a new path forward.
If you are considering leaving your current job and are looking for new opportunities, think about your ‘to.’ When I re-entered the workforce after stepping away for over a year, I knew I was making a choice to step in to a survival job. While I was grateful for the opportunity, the position was a level or two below my prior experience. It was humbling, but it gave me the opportunity to refresh my tactical and problem-solving skills. Over time, it also gave me a chance to coach and collaborate with colleagues. As a result I learned what is important to me in order to feel fulfilled in my career. This isn’t something I thought about until fairly recently. Up until now, it was all about a steady paycheck and feeling like I was adding value. Period.
In the past, changing careers has been more about outside influences than about what I really wanted. At this stage of life, I am open to making a change when the time is right. But this time is different – it isn’t going to be about looking for a job (any job) regardless. I now know what my ‘to’ looks like. My desire to move on isn’t about leaving ‘from’ where I am, but moving ‘to’ a better place – at least a better place for me.
If you have similar thoughts, take some time to define your personal ‘to.’ In speaking with friends, I have recognized there are some common themes. Below are career ‘to’s’ I have collected during discussions with friends and family – what are yours?
- Recognize that the size of a company matters. Joy Chen (Chair & CEO of H20+Beauty) says, “Your first hurdle should be to ensure that the company’s underlying purpose matches your personal convictions.” She determined after working for large companies, that she prefers smaller organizations. Smaller companies usually allow for you to effect change immediately, but you need to be willing to be very hands on – you may find that you are a department of one. On the other hand, large companies tend seek out and attract top talent and provide opportunities for growth. What type of environment stimulates you? Write it down…
- Work for a company whose products and/or services you are excited about. Personally, I have worked in the home improvement industry for most of my career. I am not handy and cannot build anything or repair anything! Recently, I purchased a pink, girlie toolbox that allows me to put together furniture ‘kits’ and hang pictures on the wall. As I think about the future, I realize that I would love to work for a company where the product or service is something I feel passionately about – what is your passion? If you had a choice, where would you want to work? Write it down…pursue it!
- Be engaged with a leadership team that is passionate, believes in mentoring, and truly wants to develop and grow their team. Most of us don’t want to just punch a clock – I want to learn new approaches to solving problems. I want to work for people whom I respect for their vision, energy and enthusiasm. Successful companies have leaders who are passionate, but do they want or care if their team is passionate as well? Not necessarily. Does this matter to you? If so, write it down. Maybe you prefer to work independently and feel you don’t want or need a mentor. That’s OK – a start up company would probably be a good fit for you.
If you feel challenged and fulfilled in your current role – kudos to you! I would love to hear about how you got there. However, if your bad days outweigh your good days, maybe it is time to identify your new ‘to.’ If you need some advice on the mechanics of applying for a job in today’s environment, check out Dusting off Your Resume, Ambition is Not a Bad Thing, Adverse to Change – Not Us! and You Have an Interview! Be strong!
