Have you ever been so involved in something that you lost track of time? Or were so energized by what you were doing that you didn’t mind the work required? And maybe it didn’t even feel like “work” to you. In other words, have you ever experienced a state of “flow?”
Flow is the term used by psychologist and author Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi, PhD, to describe a state of deep focus and high engagement. I often use this term in career coaching when helping clients assess their career motivators.
So what is it that motivates you?
Let us turn the work of career development theorist and vocational psychologist, John Holland. Holland believed that people are most satisfied when they are working with people who have interests similar to their own. He identified 6 different work environments and said that you may identify strongly with one or with a combination of two or three. Holland’s equation: Person + Compatible Work Environment = Job Satisfaction.
Click on University of Waterloo's link to read about each of the six themes: The Holland Hexagon. Then identify which group of people you identify with the most, followed by your second and third choices.
Note: The closer the themes are to each other on the hexagon, the more similar they are. For example, Enterprising and Social are next to each other, so they share similar interests (i.e., people). Realistic and Social are on opposite ends, so these interests are very different. This is not good or bad, just something to note. It might mean that you need to be more creative in brainstorming options that allow you to combine these themes. Or, it might mean that one theme represents your career interests and the other represents your leisure interests. For example, Athletic Coaching would be one way of combining your interest in physical activity (Realistic) with your interest in working with kids (Social).
Also, just because your top interest is “Social,” does not mean you must major in “Psychology,” or that you should be a Teacher. It just means that you are motivated by helping others. If you are an Engineer, and your top theme is “Social,” then it may mean that you really enjoy working on a team, coaching or mentoring other co-workers or interns, etc.
So, why is all of this important? Well, it’s simple: If you are in a work environment that is consistent with who you are, chance are that you will be more engaged, share more commonalities with your co-workers, and be more motivated towards success. In other words, you are more likely to experience “flow,” where the journey is indeed the destination and where failure just isn’t an option.
For more information on Csikszentmihalyi’s concept of “flow,” check out the following article published by the American Psychological Association (APA): “Reaching flow to optimize work and play.”
Read more!
Monday, December 1, 2008
Monday, November 3, 2008
Approximately 80% of Jobs Are Never Advertised!
A statistic quoted by Cornell University's Career Services and echoed by many.
Check out WetFeet's article on cracking the "hidden" job market:
Ten Creative Places to Find the Hidden Jobs
Read more!
Check out WetFeet's article on cracking the "hidden" job market:
Ten Creative Places to Find the Hidden Jobs
Read more!
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
Professional Associations
Professional associations are a great way to gain more information about an industry and/or field of interest and to establish networking contacts. Yahoo's Directory of Business Professional Organizations is a great resource. But if you don't find your area of interest represented, try a google search using industry-specific terms paired with the words "association" and "society."
Read more!
Read more!
Tuesday, October 7, 2008
Temp Jobs? Temp-ting!
Whether you’re a recent college grad or a career changer, temporary job assignments can provide valuable experiences. Why? Two main reasons:
1. Temp jobs provide an opportunity to “test drive” both prospective career options and organizations to determine a fit. And for those of you who are still exploring career options or are maybe experiencing some commitment anxiety, it’s a great way to check out what’s out there. In doing so you, you not only gain insight about your interests, values, and skills but you also can develop valuable transferable skills in the process.
Case in point:
I once worked with a recent college grad (“Maggie”) that was very bright, very hard working, and very confused. She loved her college program of study but when it came to finding a job, she wasn’t sure where to start. Some people might be able to identify compatible career options through research, informational interviewing, etc. For Maggie, however, those steps weren’t enough. She needed first-hand experience before she could determine what really resonated. So, what did Maggie do? She took various temp jobs for about 2 years and through trial-and-error, she began narrowing down her focus more and more, until she finally determined the best fit! And now? Maggie is enrolled in graduate school so that she can gain the qualifications to pursue her career goal! Although it was a frustrating road at times, Maggie says she wouldn’t change her temp experiences for anything. Sometimes figuring out what you want means first determining what you don’t want. And for Maggie, that’s just what she needed. She now feels motivated, challenged, and truly excited about her career path.
2. Temp jobs can also be a great way to network, especially if you are new to a particular area.
Case in point:
“Lisa” had just moved to California from the east coast and was looking for a job in her industry. She had been working in her industry for about 15 years and knew exactly where she wanted to work. Lisa’s challenge, however, was that she didn’t know how to get her foot in the door. What did Lisa do? She applied to a local employment agency and worked a couple of temp assignments before she heard about an opportunity that opened up at her employer of choice. She immediately applied for the temp position that was posted, was hired, and before too long, she landed a permanent position with the company. Some companies actually post temp positions in order to “test out” prospective employees for permanent positions. Temporary positions may also save the employer money. However, if you prove your value in your temp role, the company will more than likely do what they can to keep you!
How to find a good temp/employment agency?
Ask around for a couple of recommendations. Or check out listings online in the yellow pages. Don’t apply to a million. Pick a couple that you like and establish rapport with the agent rep. They’re the ones finding the job opportunities for you, so you want them on your side!
Read more!
1. Temp jobs provide an opportunity to “test drive” both prospective career options and organizations to determine a fit. And for those of you who are still exploring career options or are maybe experiencing some commitment anxiety, it’s a great way to check out what’s out there. In doing so you, you not only gain insight about your interests, values, and skills but you also can develop valuable transferable skills in the process.
Case in point:
I once worked with a recent college grad (“Maggie”) that was very bright, very hard working, and very confused. She loved her college program of study but when it came to finding a job, she wasn’t sure where to start. Some people might be able to identify compatible career options through research, informational interviewing, etc. For Maggie, however, those steps weren’t enough. She needed first-hand experience before she could determine what really resonated. So, what did Maggie do? She took various temp jobs for about 2 years and through trial-and-error, she began narrowing down her focus more and more, until she finally determined the best fit! And now? Maggie is enrolled in graduate school so that she can gain the qualifications to pursue her career goal! Although it was a frustrating road at times, Maggie says she wouldn’t change her temp experiences for anything. Sometimes figuring out what you want means first determining what you don’t want. And for Maggie, that’s just what she needed. She now feels motivated, challenged, and truly excited about her career path.
2. Temp jobs can also be a great way to network, especially if you are new to a particular area.
Case in point:
“Lisa” had just moved to California from the east coast and was looking for a job in her industry. She had been working in her industry for about 15 years and knew exactly where she wanted to work. Lisa’s challenge, however, was that she didn’t know how to get her foot in the door. What did Lisa do? She applied to a local employment agency and worked a couple of temp assignments before she heard about an opportunity that opened up at her employer of choice. She immediately applied for the temp position that was posted, was hired, and before too long, she landed a permanent position with the company. Some companies actually post temp positions in order to “test out” prospective employees for permanent positions. Temporary positions may also save the employer money. However, if you prove your value in your temp role, the company will more than likely do what they can to keep you!
How to find a good temp/employment agency?
Ask around for a couple of recommendations. Or check out listings online in the yellow pages. Don’t apply to a million. Pick a couple that you like and establish rapport with the agent rep. They’re the ones finding the job opportunities for you, so you want them on your side!
Read more!
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
International Experience, International Skills
What are the benefits of international experience?
Whether you have studied, worked, traveled, or lived abroad, chances are you’ve begun developing intercultural competencies that are extremely valuable in today’s global economy. With that said, I often find that people have difficulty recognizing and articulating these transferable skills. Not to mention putting them to practice.
In Dr. Bruce La Brack’s web site “What’s Up With Culture?” you will find an extensive list of “Seventy-Five Positive Long-Term Outcomes from an International Experience,” categorized by the following:
Also included are examples of how to translate these competencies into resume language.
By identifying and articulating these competencies, you will not only increase your marketability to future employers, but you will also consciously expand your learnings during future travels and intercultural exchanges. In other words, you will be more attuned to the importance of identifying and understanding culture-specific nuances that will help build bridges across cultural boundaries.
Check out the following article called “Doing Business in China”—What great value it would be to know and apply these tips when conducting business with Chinese clients and partners. This past year, I had the opportunity to spend one month in Shanghai and visit with community leaders and business professionals throughout the city. As I learned more about local values and customs, I was amazed as to how much more meaningful my exchanges became and how much more effective I was at establishing relationships. What’s even more exciting is that I still have much more to learn! Believe me: It’s worth the time and worth the intention, both professionally and personally. And in order to keep up with today’s world of work, it’s absolutely necessary.
Read more!
Whether you have studied, worked, traveled, or lived abroad, chances are you’ve begun developing intercultural competencies that are extremely valuable in today’s global economy. With that said, I often find that people have difficulty recognizing and articulating these transferable skills. Not to mention putting them to practice.
In Dr. Bruce La Brack’s web site “What’s Up With Culture?” you will find an extensive list of “Seventy-Five Positive Long-Term Outcomes from an International Experience,” categorized by the following:
- Intercultural/Communication Skills, including a list of “Transferable Intercultural Skills useful in the workplace and often sought by employers”
- Enhanced Worldview Understanding
- Personal Capabilities
- Increased Understanding of Own Culture
Also included are examples of how to translate these competencies into resume language.
By identifying and articulating these competencies, you will not only increase your marketability to future employers, but you will also consciously expand your learnings during future travels and intercultural exchanges. In other words, you will be more attuned to the importance of identifying and understanding culture-specific nuances that will help build bridges across cultural boundaries.
Check out the following article called “Doing Business in China”—What great value it would be to know and apply these tips when conducting business with Chinese clients and partners. This past year, I had the opportunity to spend one month in Shanghai and visit with community leaders and business professionals throughout the city. As I learned more about local values and customs, I was amazed as to how much more meaningful my exchanges became and how much more effective I was at establishing relationships. What’s even more exciting is that I still have much more to learn! Believe me: It’s worth the time and worth the intention, both professionally and personally. And in order to keep up with today’s world of work, it’s absolutely necessary.
Read more!
Tuesday, September 9, 2008
Career Planning: Where am I, and how do I move forward?
Many people think they have to know what questions to ask in order to seek career coaching. Au contraire. The career coaching process itself not only uncovers the “answers” but also the questions you may be seeking. Through my experience, I have found that people generally identify with one or more phase of “The Career Planning Process”:
Read below to gain a glimpse of each phase and steps we might take to help us move forward.
Phase One: Self-Assessment
You may be in Self-Assessment if you are asking the questions:
How do we move forward?
In addition, I use a number of self-assessment tools, including the following:
Phase Two: Career Exploration
You may be in Career Exploration if you are asking the questions:
How do we move forward?
As mentioned above, self-assessment instruments like the Strong Interest Inventory® can help identify compatible occupations. There are also exercises to help you clarify the type of work you want to do and the work setting in which you want to do it.
Once you have identified the options you want to explore, there are many approaches to researching them. You can use online informational resources like the Occupational Outlook Handbook and O*NET, and you can conduct Informational Interviews with people who are in the job or industry you are exploring.
Phase Three: Decision-Making
You may be in Decision-Making if you are asking the questions:
How do we move forward?
There are many reasons people become stuck in Decision-Making. In fact, I recently wrote a blog entry called “Decisions, Decisions” that addresses this very topic. As a Career Coach, I first work with clients to identify the source of the issue: i.e., a conflict in values, a lack of information, fear of making the wrong decision, pressure from others, etc. Depending on what the issue is, we would talk discuss what it is you need to move forward, whether it’s filling in missing information gaps or clarifying your decision-making criteria. The Florida State University Career Center also has a great guide to assist you with decision-making.
Phase Four: Self-Marketing
You may be in Self-Marketing/Action if you are asking the questions:
How do we move forward?
The UC Irvine Career Center has great Quick Tips to assist you with all of the above. For those who would like more personal assistance, you can also gain coaching on customizing your Resume/CV and cover letter to each job and practicing sample interview questions.
Keep in mind: You may be in more than one phase of “The Career Planning Process” at a time. That’s not a cause for panic. It just means you are working on multiple areas simultaneously. And if you know what those areas are, you will know what you need to move forward. Also note that “The Career Planning Process” itself is cyclical, and we go through it several times throughout our lives. Why? Our career, just as our life, is ever-evolving. Our interests and skills evolve, our values become re-prioritized, and our life circumstances change, which ultimately cause us to re-evaluate and re-direct. Thus, the cycle continues!
Read more!
- Self-Assessment
- Career Exploration
- Decision-Making
- Self-Marketing/Action
Read below to gain a glimpse of each phase and steps we might take to help us move forward.
Phase One: Self-Assessment
You may be in Self-Assessment if you are asking the questions:
- Who am I?
- What are my interests, skills, and work values?
How do we move forward?
- Career Intake: I developed a Career Intake to use during the initial career coaching session. For me, it’s the most instrumental part of the coaching process because it allows me to gain a clearer sense of who you are (i.e., educational background, experiences, etc.). Clients really enjoy going through the intake for two reasons: 1) It allows them to reflect on and articulate their experiences. 2) It provides a very personalized approach to career coaching.
In addition, I use a number of self-assessment tools, including the following:
- Meyers-Briggs Type Indicator®: Identifies your personality preferences. Helps you learn how to maximize your strengths in the workplace and during your job search.
- Strong Interest Inventory®: Identifies your career interests and compatible occupations.
- There are also a number of free online assessments—Check out the University of Waterloo’s Career Development eManuel.
Phase Two: Career Exploration
You may be in Career Exploration if you are asking the questions:
- What are my career options?
- What do these options entail?
How do we move forward?
As mentioned above, self-assessment instruments like the Strong Interest Inventory® can help identify compatible occupations. There are also exercises to help you clarify the type of work you want to do and the work setting in which you want to do it.
Once you have identified the options you want to explore, there are many approaches to researching them. You can use online informational resources like the Occupational Outlook Handbook and O*NET, and you can conduct Informational Interviews with people who are in the job or industry you are exploring.
Phase Three: Decision-Making
You may be in Decision-Making if you are asking the questions:
- How do I prioritize my career options?
- How do I decide which career option is the best one for me?
How do we move forward?
There are many reasons people become stuck in Decision-Making. In fact, I recently wrote a blog entry called “Decisions, Decisions” that addresses this very topic. As a Career Coach, I first work with clients to identify the source of the issue: i.e., a conflict in values, a lack of information, fear of making the wrong decision, pressure from others, etc. Depending on what the issue is, we would talk discuss what it is you need to move forward, whether it’s filling in missing information gaps or clarifying your decision-making criteria. The Florida State University Career Center also has a great guide to assist you with decision-making.
Phase Four: Self-Marketing
You may be in Self-Marketing/Action if you are asking the questions:
- How do I write a Resume/CV and cover letter?
- What are effective interviewing techniques?
- How do I adopt a networking approach that fits me?
- What are successful job/internship search strategies?
- How do I select and apply to graduate school?
How do we move forward?
The UC Irvine Career Center has great Quick Tips to assist you with all of the above. For those who would like more personal assistance, you can also gain coaching on customizing your Resume/CV and cover letter to each job and practicing sample interview questions.
Keep in mind: You may be in more than one phase of “The Career Planning Process” at a time. That’s not a cause for panic. It just means you are working on multiple areas simultaneously. And if you know what those areas are, you will know what you need to move forward. Also note that “The Career Planning Process” itself is cyclical, and we go through it several times throughout our lives. Why? Our career, just as our life, is ever-evolving. Our interests and skills evolve, our values become re-prioritized, and our life circumstances change, which ultimately cause us to re-evaluate and re-direct. Thus, the cycle continues!
Read more!
Tuesday, September 2, 2008
Layoff, Alarm Off?
Has your recent layoff sent you into a panic? It’s time to turn off the alarm!
Although sometimes welcomed, more often than not, layoffs can send people into panic mode. And understandably so. Why? The reasons may vary, including:
a) You “fell into” your first career without really knowing why, and now you are faced with the question, “What do I really want to do?”
b) You worked in your last career for a number of years, and the idea of marketing yourself again (or for the first time) feels daunting.
c) You have bills to pay! You need to find a job ASAP!
d) All of the above.
What to do? Let’s address “c” first. How do people financially sustain themselves during this transition? Some people receive a severance package; others may file for unemployment or look for temporary work.
Then what? While the post-lay off period can be challenging, it’s also an opportunity to re-evaluate your career path, make conscious career decisions, and learn effective self-marketing strategies that will serve you in your current job search and beyond. Doesn’t that sound appealing?
You’ve probably heard endless clichés about how “attitude” makes a difference. But before you roll those eyes, think about this: Your situation is what it is. You now have two choices: Seize the opportunity or wallow in doom. You can probably guess which one is more productive. Allow yourself a brief period to grieve and re-group, then start preparing to move forward. Your career is not ending; it’s shifting and evolving.
Whether you were working in the mortgage industry, sales, education, etc., you have developed transferable skills that can be applied to a number of industries and jobs—ones of which you might not have been aware. And exciting ones at that! Remember: As society changes, so do jobs—Some may become obsolete, but there are always new ones that develop.
Some tips to get you started:
First, refer to a skills list to complete the exercises below. (Visit the UC Irvine Career Center web site, and under “Independent Investigation Exercises,” download the “packet of self-assessment activities.” You will find a “Functional/Transferable Skills” list on p. 2 and 3.)
1. Highlight the skills you developed in your last career. Chances are you have more than you realized.
2. Write down the skills you want to use in your next career.
3. Create a summary statement integrating all the skills you identified in #2. For example, “I am seeking a career that will allow me to utilize/apply my…”
4. Also, make a separate note of any additional skills you would like to learn. This might be a good time to further your professional development. Consider taking a class, watching a webinar, or reading online and print informational resources.
Second, make a list of all the industries about which you would like to learn more. Schedule informational meetings with people in these industries to learn about the most recent qualifications being sought. Refer to Quintessential Careers’ Informational Interviewing Tutorial. Utilize social networking sites (e.g., linkedin.com, facebook.com) as a way to get connected.
Third, create or update your resume based on your industry research. There are a number of online tutorials and resources that can assist you. Download UC Berkeley’s Job & Internship Guide. Review the section on “Resume & Letter Writing.”
Still feeling lost or stuck? You are certainly not alone. It’s normal to feel that way when making a big transition, especially one you did not anticipate. It might be helpful to consult with a trusted friend, mentor, or career coach to provide you with the resources and support you need to move forward. Because you will move forward. In Ken Kragen’s book, Life is a Contact Sport, he tells a great story about the Cartier jewelry company during the nineties recession—They simply decided “not to participate in the recession.” Just some food for thought.
For more insight, check out the following Career Journal article.
Read more!
Although sometimes welcomed, more often than not, layoffs can send people into panic mode. And understandably so. Why? The reasons may vary, including:
a) You “fell into” your first career without really knowing why, and now you are faced with the question, “What do I really want to do?”
b) You worked in your last career for a number of years, and the idea of marketing yourself again (or for the first time) feels daunting.
c) You have bills to pay! You need to find a job ASAP!
d) All of the above.
What to do? Let’s address “c” first. How do people financially sustain themselves during this transition? Some people receive a severance package; others may file for unemployment or look for temporary work.
Then what? While the post-lay off period can be challenging, it’s also an opportunity to re-evaluate your career path, make conscious career decisions, and learn effective self-marketing strategies that will serve you in your current job search and beyond. Doesn’t that sound appealing?
You’ve probably heard endless clichés about how “attitude” makes a difference. But before you roll those eyes, think about this: Your situation is what it is. You now have two choices: Seize the opportunity or wallow in doom. You can probably guess which one is more productive. Allow yourself a brief period to grieve and re-group, then start preparing to move forward. Your career is not ending; it’s shifting and evolving.
Whether you were working in the mortgage industry, sales, education, etc., you have developed transferable skills that can be applied to a number of industries and jobs—ones of which you might not have been aware. And exciting ones at that! Remember: As society changes, so do jobs—Some may become obsolete, but there are always new ones that develop.
Some tips to get you started:
First, refer to a skills list to complete the exercises below. (Visit the UC Irvine Career Center web site, and under “Independent Investigation Exercises,” download the “packet of self-assessment activities.” You will find a “Functional/Transferable Skills” list on p. 2 and 3.)
1. Highlight the skills you developed in your last career. Chances are you have more than you realized.
2. Write down the skills you want to use in your next career.
3. Create a summary statement integrating all the skills you identified in #2. For example, “I am seeking a career that will allow me to utilize/apply my…”
4. Also, make a separate note of any additional skills you would like to learn. This might be a good time to further your professional development. Consider taking a class, watching a webinar, or reading online and print informational resources.
Second, make a list of all the industries about which you would like to learn more. Schedule informational meetings with people in these industries to learn about the most recent qualifications being sought. Refer to Quintessential Careers’ Informational Interviewing Tutorial. Utilize social networking sites (e.g., linkedin.com, facebook.com) as a way to get connected.
Third, create or update your resume based on your industry research. There are a number of online tutorials and resources that can assist you. Download UC Berkeley’s Job & Internship Guide. Review the section on “Resume & Letter Writing.”
Still feeling lost or stuck? You are certainly not alone. It’s normal to feel that way when making a big transition, especially one you did not anticipate. It might be helpful to consult with a trusted friend, mentor, or career coach to provide you with the resources and support you need to move forward. Because you will move forward. In Ken Kragen’s book, Life is a Contact Sport, he tells a great story about the Cartier jewelry company during the nineties recession—They simply decided “not to participate in the recession.” Just some food for thought.
For more insight, check out the following Career Journal article.
Read more!
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
Graduate School: To Go or Not to Go?
Graduate School. To go or not to go? That is the question. And one I hear asked more frequently as of late. Nothing sends people to graduate school faster than a dip in the economy.
So what’s your answer? Well, maybe the better question is, what’s your intention?
To go?
Graduate school is a great option for people who need the degree and/or increased knowledge to pursue their selected career path. In other words, the graduate education is serving a purpose. The purpose could be to advance in a particular field, to obtain required credentials, or to receive specific training. Some people also just have a basic love of learning, and the process itself is worth their time and expenses.
Or not to go?
Avoiding the job market is probably not the best reason to go to graduate school. Neither is delaying your career decision-making or putting off your student loans. I’ve often heard people say they’ll go to graduate school first, and then decide afterwards what they want to do. Wouldn’t it make more sense to explore your options first, either through research or direct experience? You could then determine whether or not you actually need the graduate degree and more specifically, which degree best serves your career goal. Otherwise, you may finish graduate school and still be at a point of indecision. Only now you have graduate loans to pay, too. And you might even feel restricted in doing something that will directly apply your new degree.
Graduate school can open many doors and truly be a rewarding experience. So do your homework to ensure that it’s the right program, at the right time, and for the right reason. This is not to say that you won’t change your mind once you’re in graduate school. Chances are your career path will evolve throughout your study (and your life for that matter) based on experiences that you cannot currently foresee. However, the clearer and more intentional you are before going into it, the more likely you are to maximize the experience.
Take these two examples:
1. The Case of Miguel
As Miguel approached the end of his undergraduate study, he began to get nervous. What was he going to do after college? His grades were good, and he was an active student leader, but he hadn’t really taken the time to identify and explore his career options. Miguel’s family suggested he go to law school. Although Miguel didn’t really enjoy his summer job in a law office nor was he very intrigued by the work of attorneys, he liked the idea of obtaining a “higher” degree. He figured that whatever he decided to pursue, a law degree could provide the prestige and income he was seeking. Miguel applied and was accepted to law school. During his three years of study, he just went through the motions. He attended classes, studied hard, made good friends, but was never really energized by the profession. Now Miguel has finished law school, has passed the bar, and is still wondering, “What am I going to do?” He is a hard worker, which is why he is so frustrated by his current lack of motivation.
2. The Case of Maria
During her undergraduate study, Maria began thinking about the “next step” after college. She was intrigued by the legal system and really enjoyed her two summer internships at a law firm. She decided to conduct informational interviews with several attorneys in order to gain more insight into the different specializations of law. When applying for schools, Maria researched each school she was considering in order to determine which ones might best fit. She even connected with current law students at these schools to gain their perspectives and learn about their experiences. By the time Maria was ready to apply to law school, she felt confident in her decision. She was excited about getting started and spent the next three years participating in professional associations and student leadership opportunities within her program. She even carefully chose internships that would provide her with relevant experiences and networking opportunities. Now Maria has finished law school, has passed the bar, and is working for a firm, which truly embodies her values and interests in the legal field. It’s hard work, but she loves what she does.
Now these examples are not to say that Miguel is doomed for life or that Maria is the perfect role model for everyone. They merely represent two of the many approaches to career planning.
The moral of the story? Think about “why” before “how.” If you’re not sure why, maybe you need more time or more experiences before making a decision. And if you make a decision with which you are not happy, it’s not too late to re-evaluate and move in a different direction. You might be surprised as to how a seemingly “bad” decision at the time can end up serving you later. Maybe not in a way you had imagined but probably in a way that better suits you.
For more information about graduate school planning, visit Peterson’s Planner.
Read more!
So what’s your answer? Well, maybe the better question is, what’s your intention?
To go?
Graduate school is a great option for people who need the degree and/or increased knowledge to pursue their selected career path. In other words, the graduate education is serving a purpose. The purpose could be to advance in a particular field, to obtain required credentials, or to receive specific training. Some people also just have a basic love of learning, and the process itself is worth their time and expenses.
Or not to go?
Avoiding the job market is probably not the best reason to go to graduate school. Neither is delaying your career decision-making or putting off your student loans. I’ve often heard people say they’ll go to graduate school first, and then decide afterwards what they want to do. Wouldn’t it make more sense to explore your options first, either through research or direct experience? You could then determine whether or not you actually need the graduate degree and more specifically, which degree best serves your career goal. Otherwise, you may finish graduate school and still be at a point of indecision. Only now you have graduate loans to pay, too. And you might even feel restricted in doing something that will directly apply your new degree.
Graduate school can open many doors and truly be a rewarding experience. So do your homework to ensure that it’s the right program, at the right time, and for the right reason. This is not to say that you won’t change your mind once you’re in graduate school. Chances are your career path will evolve throughout your study (and your life for that matter) based on experiences that you cannot currently foresee. However, the clearer and more intentional you are before going into it, the more likely you are to maximize the experience.
Take these two examples:
1. The Case of Miguel
As Miguel approached the end of his undergraduate study, he began to get nervous. What was he going to do after college? His grades were good, and he was an active student leader, but he hadn’t really taken the time to identify and explore his career options. Miguel’s family suggested he go to law school. Although Miguel didn’t really enjoy his summer job in a law office nor was he very intrigued by the work of attorneys, he liked the idea of obtaining a “higher” degree. He figured that whatever he decided to pursue, a law degree could provide the prestige and income he was seeking. Miguel applied and was accepted to law school. During his three years of study, he just went through the motions. He attended classes, studied hard, made good friends, but was never really energized by the profession. Now Miguel has finished law school, has passed the bar, and is still wondering, “What am I going to do?” He is a hard worker, which is why he is so frustrated by his current lack of motivation.
2. The Case of Maria
During her undergraduate study, Maria began thinking about the “next step” after college. She was intrigued by the legal system and really enjoyed her two summer internships at a law firm. She decided to conduct informational interviews with several attorneys in order to gain more insight into the different specializations of law. When applying for schools, Maria researched each school she was considering in order to determine which ones might best fit. She even connected with current law students at these schools to gain their perspectives and learn about their experiences. By the time Maria was ready to apply to law school, she felt confident in her decision. She was excited about getting started and spent the next three years participating in professional associations and student leadership opportunities within her program. She even carefully chose internships that would provide her with relevant experiences and networking opportunities. Now Maria has finished law school, has passed the bar, and is working for a firm, which truly embodies her values and interests in the legal field. It’s hard work, but she loves what she does.
Now these examples are not to say that Miguel is doomed for life or that Maria is the perfect role model for everyone. They merely represent two of the many approaches to career planning.
The moral of the story? Think about “why” before “how.” If you’re not sure why, maybe you need more time or more experiences before making a decision. And if you make a decision with which you are not happy, it’s not too late to re-evaluate and move in a different direction. You might be surprised as to how a seemingly “bad” decision at the time can end up serving you later. Maybe not in a way you had imagined but probably in a way that better suits you.
For more information about graduate school planning, visit Peterson’s Planner.
Read more!
Thursday, August 21, 2008
Decisions, Decisions
Ever feel stuck making a career decision? You’re not alone. Career decision-making can be one of the most difficult parts of the career planning process. It can range from choosing a major, selecting your next career path, or deciding between two job offers.
Why is it so difficult to make a decision? Because we often don’t know a) why we are stuck and b) how we can move forward. The result? Confusion, frustration, and immobilization. Basically, running ourselves in circles. A former colleague brilliantly termed it “mental gymnastics.”
So, how do we dismount?
Let’s start with the “why.” Although there may be a number of reasons why people feel stuck in their career decision-making, the following three are the most common I see among my clients:
1. Lack of information: Not having enough information about each option to make an informed decision
2. Values conflict: Each option satisfies some of your work values (i.e., the “must haves”), but no option satisfies all of your work values.
3. Fear: The list could be endless here: fear of taking a risk, fear of failure, fear of success, fear of making the “wrong” decision, fear of disappointing others, etc.
Once you determine which of the above you identify with most (and it could be all three), the next question is “How do I move forward?”
1. Lack of information?
If you don’t have enough information about your options, it’s time to do your homework. Determine which questions are unanswered or where your information gap lies, and start your research. You can use the web, talk to others in the majors/careers/organizations you are considering, etc. Your research might lead to more questions, and that’s okay. Just be careful that your information gathering doesn’t become obsessive, i.e., endless search and no action. Again, determining and re-evaluating your search criteria can help prevent this from happening.
2. Values conflict?
Our work values can be used as criteria for measuring our career satisfaction. If your major/job does not satisfy your work values, you may experience a lack of motivation, stress, internal conflict, etc. Not pretty. To move forward, you must first clarify and articulate what your work values are (e.g., high income, flexible work hours, autonomy, creativity, etc.). Then prioritize or rank them in their order of importance. You now have concrete criteria for evaluating your options. There are great career exercises to help assist you with this process (Refer to link below.).
3. Fear?
I sometimes meet clients who have made their next career decision, yet are still not moving forward to pursue their goal. I often ask the question, “What would you do if you weren’t afraid?” And they can even tell me exactly what they would do. Fear can be immobilizing. The question to then ask yourself is this, “Which is more appealing to you now: a) the risk/opportunity that lies in the unknown OR b) your current situation?” Because until the answer is “a,” then you might not feel ready to act. Sometimes recognizing your fears as “barriers” can be enough to launch forward moving. At other times, your fears may reflect a long-established thought pattern.
Remember: You don’t have to figure this all out alone. Talk to a trusted friend/mentor or seek career coaching. Externally processing your decision can help you determine when it’s appropriate to honor your fears and when you need to challenge yourself and move past them. In other words, are your instincts protecting you or your negative thoughts debilitating you?
There are also great online tools to help you with your decision-making process—Check out The Florida State University’s guide on Choosing A Major or Occupation.
Read more!
Why is it so difficult to make a decision? Because we often don’t know a) why we are stuck and b) how we can move forward. The result? Confusion, frustration, and immobilization. Basically, running ourselves in circles. A former colleague brilliantly termed it “mental gymnastics.”
So, how do we dismount?
Let’s start with the “why.” Although there may be a number of reasons why people feel stuck in their career decision-making, the following three are the most common I see among my clients:
1. Lack of information: Not having enough information about each option to make an informed decision
2. Values conflict: Each option satisfies some of your work values (i.e., the “must haves”), but no option satisfies all of your work values.
3. Fear: The list could be endless here: fear of taking a risk, fear of failure, fear of success, fear of making the “wrong” decision, fear of disappointing others, etc.
Once you determine which of the above you identify with most (and it could be all three), the next question is “How do I move forward?”
1. Lack of information?
If you don’t have enough information about your options, it’s time to do your homework. Determine which questions are unanswered or where your information gap lies, and start your research. You can use the web, talk to others in the majors/careers/organizations you are considering, etc. Your research might lead to more questions, and that’s okay. Just be careful that your information gathering doesn’t become obsessive, i.e., endless search and no action. Again, determining and re-evaluating your search criteria can help prevent this from happening.
2. Values conflict?
Our work values can be used as criteria for measuring our career satisfaction. If your major/job does not satisfy your work values, you may experience a lack of motivation, stress, internal conflict, etc. Not pretty. To move forward, you must first clarify and articulate what your work values are (e.g., high income, flexible work hours, autonomy, creativity, etc.). Then prioritize or rank them in their order of importance. You now have concrete criteria for evaluating your options. There are great career exercises to help assist you with this process (Refer to link below.).
3. Fear?
I sometimes meet clients who have made their next career decision, yet are still not moving forward to pursue their goal. I often ask the question, “What would you do if you weren’t afraid?” And they can even tell me exactly what they would do. Fear can be immobilizing. The question to then ask yourself is this, “Which is more appealing to you now: a) the risk/opportunity that lies in the unknown OR b) your current situation?” Because until the answer is “a,” then you might not feel ready to act. Sometimes recognizing your fears as “barriers” can be enough to launch forward moving. At other times, your fears may reflect a long-established thought pattern.
Remember: You don’t have to figure this all out alone. Talk to a trusted friend/mentor or seek career coaching. Externally processing your decision can help you determine when it’s appropriate to honor your fears and when you need to challenge yourself and move past them. In other words, are your instincts protecting you or your negative thoughts debilitating you?
There are also great online tools to help you with your decision-making process—Check out The Florida State University’s guide on Choosing A Major or Occupation.
Read more!
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
"Ready, Aim, Fire! " What's Your Career Objective?
Creating your “spiel”:
Whether it’s talking to a prospective employer, networking with someone you know (or don’t know), or just explaining to people what you do, sometimes you need to “spiel” it out. I refer to it as “target practice” because it involves really clarifying and articulating your focus. Both for yourself and others.
During my own job search, I found target practice particularly helpful and productive. It helped me realize what exactly I wanted, and it gave the people in my network something concrete for which to help me look. After all, how are others supposed to know what you are looking for if you don’t even know?
So, how do you begin your target practice? Let’s go back to the basics:
Keep it simple. Stick with the traditional WHO, WHAT, WHERE, and WHY. I’m leaving out the “WHEN”—but you can add it in if you’d like.
1. The WHO:
This is your freebee. Because the “who” is you. Might as well start off easy to get your feet wet. And what do you know--You now have only have 3 more to go.
2. The WHAT:
The “what” answers the question, “What do I want to do?” It refers to the function or the type of work you want to be doing. Whether it’s accounting, graphic design, management, production, counseling, etc.—Prioritize the fields of work you find most motivating.
3. The WHERE:
This one should actually be plural, as in the “wheres.” It has 3 parts:
a. industry
b. employer
c. organizational culture
For example: “I would like to work in the entertainment industry, for a TV network, in an organizational culture that is fast-paced, innovative, and team-oriented.”
4. The WHY:
Here’s your chance to really articulate your relevant education, skills, and/or experiences. In other words, what about your background makes YOU compatible for a particular type of work and/or a particular industry?
For example: “The reason I chose advertising is because I excelled in both art and business in college; I am very creative and entrepreneurial; and I really enjoyed my previous work experience designing magazine and newspaper ads."
By articulating the “why,” you are highlighting your qualifications to prospective employers AND giving the people in your network language they can use when promoting you to others.
Putting it all together:
Now combine your who, what, where, and why, and you have yourself a career objective!
For example: “I am seeking a position in advertising within the entertainment industry. I’d like to work for a TV network in an environment that is fast-paced, innovative, and team-oriented. I chose advertising because I excelled in both art and business in college; I am very creative and entrepreneurial; and I really enjoyed my previous work experience designing magazine and newspaper ads.”
You obviously don’t have to memorize your spiel word-for-word or spit it out like a robot, but have a basic idea of how you are going to articulate yourself. Also keep in mind that you don’t have to pick just one objective. You can have several. You might decide you want to do marketing but are open to both the entertainment industry AND the pharmaceutical industry. As long as you don’t have a thousand (because that might be a little overwhelming), then having several options can be great.
Still feeling stuck?
After going through target practice, some of you might be asking the question, “What if I don’t know the who, what, where, and/or why?” Well, then that’s the place to start! Not the application process. Aim before you shoot. Those who say, “I’ll do anything” often end up just doing “anything.” With that said, sometimes our life situation requires us to find immediate employment, particularly for financial reasons. Even if you need to take a temporary job to earn some income, I encourage you to begin your target practice so that you are actively engaging in your career planning.
Read more!
Whether it’s talking to a prospective employer, networking with someone you know (or don’t know), or just explaining to people what you do, sometimes you need to “spiel” it out. I refer to it as “target practice” because it involves really clarifying and articulating your focus. Both for yourself and others.
During my own job search, I found target practice particularly helpful and productive. It helped me realize what exactly I wanted, and it gave the people in my network something concrete for which to help me look. After all, how are others supposed to know what you are looking for if you don’t even know?
So, how do you begin your target practice? Let’s go back to the basics:
Keep it simple. Stick with the traditional WHO, WHAT, WHERE, and WHY. I’m leaving out the “WHEN”—but you can add it in if you’d like.
1. The WHO:
This is your freebee. Because the “who” is you. Might as well start off easy to get your feet wet. And what do you know--You now have only have 3 more to go.
2. The WHAT:
The “what” answers the question, “What do I want to do?” It refers to the function or the type of work you want to be doing. Whether it’s accounting, graphic design, management, production, counseling, etc.—Prioritize the fields of work you find most motivating.
3. The WHERE:
This one should actually be plural, as in the “wheres.” It has 3 parts:
a. industry
b. employer
c. organizational culture
For example: “I would like to work in the entertainment industry, for a TV network, in an organizational culture that is fast-paced, innovative, and team-oriented.”
4. The WHY:
Here’s your chance to really articulate your relevant education, skills, and/or experiences. In other words, what about your background makes YOU compatible for a particular type of work and/or a particular industry?
For example: “The reason I chose advertising is because I excelled in both art and business in college; I am very creative and entrepreneurial; and I really enjoyed my previous work experience designing magazine and newspaper ads."
By articulating the “why,” you are highlighting your qualifications to prospective employers AND giving the people in your network language they can use when promoting you to others.
Putting it all together:
Now combine your who, what, where, and why, and you have yourself a career objective!
For example: “I am seeking a position in advertising within the entertainment industry. I’d like to work for a TV network in an environment that is fast-paced, innovative, and team-oriented. I chose advertising because I excelled in both art and business in college; I am very creative and entrepreneurial; and I really enjoyed my previous work experience designing magazine and newspaper ads.”
You obviously don’t have to memorize your spiel word-for-word or spit it out like a robot, but have a basic idea of how you are going to articulate yourself. Also keep in mind that you don’t have to pick just one objective. You can have several. You might decide you want to do marketing but are open to both the entertainment industry AND the pharmaceutical industry. As long as you don’t have a thousand (because that might be a little overwhelming), then having several options can be great.
Still feeling stuck?
After going through target practice, some of you might be asking the question, “What if I don’t know the who, what, where, and/or why?” Well, then that’s the place to start! Not the application process. Aim before you shoot. Those who say, “I’ll do anything” often end up just doing “anything.” With that said, sometimes our life situation requires us to find immediate employment, particularly for financial reasons. Even if you need to take a temporary job to earn some income, I encourage you to begin your target practice so that you are actively engaging in your career planning.
Read more!
Thursday, August 7, 2008
If You're Happy and You Know It...
Positive Psychology: Can happiness make the world go round?
I first learned about “Positive Psychology” at a conference workshop. My ears instantly perked up at the mention of this new branch of Psychology. I had always marveled at the power of optimism, and to find out that there is research focusing on the science of happiness was quite intriguing!
For those of you who are unfamiliar, Positive Psychology was founded by Dr. Martin Seligman, Director of the University of Pennsylvania Positive Psychology Center. His theory is based on the “empirical study of such things as positive emotions, strengths-based character, and healthy institutions.” In 2005, Seligman’s work was featured in Time Magazine and more recently, the July/August edition of the American Psychological Association’s American Psychologist.
So what does this have to do with career planning? Everything! In my team development workshops, I often begin by asking people to write their first and last name on a piece of paper. Simple enough for most of us, right? Then, I ask them to do the same thing using the opposite hand. This of course evokes a few giggles and commentaries from the group. Afterwards, I ask one of the participants, “You know, John, you write really well with your right hand, but your left hand needs some work. Why don’t you just spend the next few months focusing on improving your left-handedness”? John responds with a puzzled look: “That seems like a lot of energy, when I already know that writing with my right hand is more natural.” My response: Exactly!”
How often do we spend time focusing on our “weaknesses,” when we would be more productive (and probably a lot more satisfied) focusing on our strengths? Organizations like Gallup Inc. apply this very concept in their business to increase customer engagement and maximize employee productivity. Their conclusion? It works!
Now this is not to say that we wouldn’t benefit from expanding our skill set or that we shouldn’t challenge ourselves. What it says, though, is that when we are contributing our natural talents, everyone benefits.
Check out Seligman’s web site called Authentic Happiness. You can read more about Positive Psychology and access its FREE resources. I recently took the “VIA Signature Strengths Questionnaire” and was quite pleased with the accuracy of my results. What these inventories provide, above all, is insight into ourselves and language we can use to describe our strengths, whether it’s for a resume/cover letter or during an interview. They can also help in understanding and enhancing our communication with others, both in our personal and professional lives.
As Albert Schweitzer so wisely said, “Success is not the key to happiness. Happiness is the key to success. If you love what you are doing, you will be successful.”
Read more!
I first learned about “Positive Psychology” at a conference workshop. My ears instantly perked up at the mention of this new branch of Psychology. I had always marveled at the power of optimism, and to find out that there is research focusing on the science of happiness was quite intriguing!
For those of you who are unfamiliar, Positive Psychology was founded by Dr. Martin Seligman, Director of the University of Pennsylvania Positive Psychology Center. His theory is based on the “empirical study of such things as positive emotions, strengths-based character, and healthy institutions.” In 2005, Seligman’s work was featured in Time Magazine and more recently, the July/August edition of the American Psychological Association’s American Psychologist.
So what does this have to do with career planning? Everything! In my team development workshops, I often begin by asking people to write their first and last name on a piece of paper. Simple enough for most of us, right? Then, I ask them to do the same thing using the opposite hand. This of course evokes a few giggles and commentaries from the group. Afterwards, I ask one of the participants, “You know, John, you write really well with your right hand, but your left hand needs some work. Why don’t you just spend the next few months focusing on improving your left-handedness”? John responds with a puzzled look: “That seems like a lot of energy, when I already know that writing with my right hand is more natural.” My response: Exactly!”
How often do we spend time focusing on our “weaknesses,” when we would be more productive (and probably a lot more satisfied) focusing on our strengths? Organizations like Gallup Inc. apply this very concept in their business to increase customer engagement and maximize employee productivity. Their conclusion? It works!
Now this is not to say that we wouldn’t benefit from expanding our skill set or that we shouldn’t challenge ourselves. What it says, though, is that when we are contributing our natural talents, everyone benefits.
Check out Seligman’s web site called Authentic Happiness. You can read more about Positive Psychology and access its FREE resources. I recently took the “VIA Signature Strengths Questionnaire” and was quite pleased with the accuracy of my results. What these inventories provide, above all, is insight into ourselves and language we can use to describe our strengths, whether it’s for a resume/cover letter or during an interview. They can also help in understanding and enhancing our communication with others, both in our personal and professional lives.
As Albert Schweitzer so wisely said, “Success is not the key to happiness. Happiness is the key to success. If you love what you are doing, you will be successful.”
Read more!
Tuesday, August 5, 2008
The Generational Re-Mix
Today’s blog entry was inspired by two similar (but different) conversations I had this past week. The first: a twenty-something professional expressing angst about managing employees “the same age as my dad.” The second: a fifty-something professional expressing frustration with “the kids of today.”
We often talk about the benefits of a diverse workforce in terms of ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, etc. But what about age? Couldn’t the blending, “or re-mix,” of generations also be a plus? Wouldn’t we establish a more engaged work force or create a better product/service or reach a broader audience if we incorporated the strengths and knowledge of each generation’s perspective?
Obviously some organizational cultures may tend to attract certain generations over others, and some may target customers from specific generations. But with that said, it would seem to our overall advantage to understand the general personal and workplace characteristics across the generations in order to truly benefit from each.
So what generations are generally represented in today's society? Although the labels and timeline may vary by source, generations typically fall into the following 4 categories:
• Traditionalists (born before 1964)
• Baby Boomers (born between 1946 and 1964)
• Generation X’ers (born between 1965 and 1977)
• Generation Y, Millenials (born after 1977)
For more information on this topic, check out the 2 articles below:
1. This one was published in 2005, but I like Greg Hammill’s charts on the different generations and his reasons for why this is an important issue:
“Mixing and Managing Four Generations of Employees”
2. Erin White’s article is more recent. Read more about the different perspectives on generational theory and tips for making the “re-mix” work:
“Age Is as Age Does: Making the Generation Gap Work for You”
Read more!
We often talk about the benefits of a diverse workforce in terms of ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, etc. But what about age? Couldn’t the blending, “or re-mix,” of generations also be a plus? Wouldn’t we establish a more engaged work force or create a better product/service or reach a broader audience if we incorporated the strengths and knowledge of each generation’s perspective?
Obviously some organizational cultures may tend to attract certain generations over others, and some may target customers from specific generations. But with that said, it would seem to our overall advantage to understand the general personal and workplace characteristics across the generations in order to truly benefit from each.
So what generations are generally represented in today's society? Although the labels and timeline may vary by source, generations typically fall into the following 4 categories:
• Traditionalists (born before 1964)
• Baby Boomers (born between 1946 and 1964)
• Generation X’ers (born between 1965 and 1977)
• Generation Y, Millenials (born after 1977)
For more information on this topic, check out the 2 articles below:
1. This one was published in 2005, but I like Greg Hammill’s charts on the different generations and his reasons for why this is an important issue:
“Mixing and Managing Four Generations of Employees”
2. Erin White’s article is more recent. Read more about the different perspectives on generational theory and tips for making the “re-mix” work:
“Age Is as Age Does: Making the Generation Gap Work for You”
Read more!
Friday, August 1, 2008
Networking: Finding A Shoe That Fits
When it comes to networking, one size does not always fit all. Most of us have heard the old adage, “It’s not what you know but who you now.” And for some of us, it’s as easy as that. We have no problem talking to strangers. Or to walls for that matter. But for others of us, the thought of networking conjures up the image of a room full of people we don’t know. In other words: Awkward. Terrifying. And “No Way!”
Sometimes I wish I could erase the word “networking” from the dictionary, so as to erase the negative connotation and stereotypes associated with it। I’d then come up with a new word that blends “info sharing” with “relationship building” because that’s really what networking is. But the new fusion word probably wouldn’t be in the dictionary, and we might get some puzzled looks. So instead, let’s try and reframe…
I’m consistently asked, “How do I become a better networker?” Or “How do I become one of those people who can effortlessly work a room?” My answer: You don’t। The goal of networking is not to become someone you’re not because a) you might feel awkward and b) you might look awkward. Not a good combo. The goal is actually to identify a networking approach that is both compatible and comfortable with who you are. We all fall some somewhere along the continuum between “chatty patty” and “hermit.” It’s important to understand that there can be strengths and weaknesses associated with both extremes. Play on your strengths. Set realistic goals. Identify an approach that “fits.” And challenge yourself, without throwing yourself into a panic.
Here is a great link to “Successful Job Search Networking.” Pick and choose what works for you!
Read more!
Sometimes I wish I could erase the word “networking” from the dictionary, so as to erase the negative connotation and stereotypes associated with it। I’d then come up with a new word that blends “info sharing” with “relationship building” because that’s really what networking is. But the new fusion word probably wouldn’t be in the dictionary, and we might get some puzzled looks. So instead, let’s try and reframe…
I’m consistently asked, “How do I become a better networker?” Or “How do I become one of those people who can effortlessly work a room?” My answer: You don’t। The goal of networking is not to become someone you’re not because a) you might feel awkward and b) you might look awkward. Not a good combo. The goal is actually to identify a networking approach that is both compatible and comfortable with who you are. We all fall some somewhere along the continuum between “chatty patty” and “hermit.” It’s important to understand that there can be strengths and weaknesses associated with both extremes. Play on your strengths. Set realistic goals. Identify an approach that “fits.” And challenge yourself, without throwing yourself into a panic.
Here is a great link to “Successful Job Search Networking.” Pick and choose what works for you!
Read more!
Tuesday, July 29, 2008
Help! I'm in Transition...
Career Transitions: Scary or exciting? How about both?
We all experience transition at some point, or more likely at several points, in our lives. Whether it’s from high school to college, or from college to your first “professional” job, or from one career to the next--they’re all transitions. They can be exciting. They can be re-invigorating. They can even be a new opportunity for growth!
And did I mention they can be scary? And discouraging? And unsettling? And stressful?
I have recently experienced transition myself, and I would have to yell a great big “YES!” to all of the above. I call it entering the “river of change” because it can feel like we are completely unanchored—in between two banks, paddling into the unknown. At times we can feel motivated to paddle our little hearts out, especially when we’re heading in the “right” direction. At other times, we can feel at a complete loss and allow our thoughts and fears to get the best of us:
“Where do I start?”
“Do I apply for what I already know or dare try something new?”
“What if I’m not qualified for something new?”
“How will I financially support myself during this transition?”
“I feel like I’m just randomly applying for everything.”
“I’m not really excited by anything!”
And the list goes on…
My friends, I wish I had a magic formula to alleviate the discomforts of transition or to prevent it altogether. But I don’t. However, I can share some strategies that just might make the process feel more manageable. So here it goes…
1. Congratulate yourself!
First thing’s first. You deserve a big pat on the back for having the courage to enter this unknown state. Something inside you said that you are ready to move on, to grow, to take the “next step,” because where you are is no longer cutting it. Think about how many people can’t or won’t even entertain the notion. After all, it is indeed a risk. Consider the number of people who will stay in their current situation because of fear or life circumstances. Many many people. But not you; you took the first step. You’ve committed to change!
2. Re-valuate what motivates you.
Chances are you have a different mindset or life situation now than in your last transition. So it’s time to re-evaluate! What was important to you then, and what’s important to you now? Maybe your motivators are the same, but they ceased to be met. For me, my motivators have shifted. Before my last job, I was looking for the following:
I successfully and gratefully found all of these things, which is why I stayed with my previous employer for seven years. However, my work values have shifted, and I am now motivated by:
Thus, I have new criteria to evaluate my future career options.
3. Begin exploration!
Time to identify what your next career options even are! Ultimately, you want a new career goal, so how do you begin this process? Start with who and what you know. Schedule informational interviews with previous employers and their contacts. For those of you who are unfamiliar with the concept of “informational interviews,” get familiar. Here is a great online tutorial: http://www.quintcareers.com/informational_interviewing.html.
From my experience, informational interviewing is one of the most effective job searching tools. It basically involves talking to people about their career field/industry/employer. The benefits? Gain more information about the careers you are considering and increase your network of contacts. By increasing your network, you are filling your “pipeline” so that more people have their eyes and ears opened for you. It’s amazing how many more job opportunities you will learn about when you have other people passing along referrals.
Exploration can at times feel discouraging, as you are likely to hit some dead ends or suddenly feel unmotivated by prospects that initially seemed promising. This is all part of the process! It can be just as helpful to eliminate incompatible options, as it is to identify compatible ones. It’s like dating (but that’s for a different time and a different blog).
I can’t even begin to count how many informational interviews I conducted in my last transition. Although it got tiring at times (and this is coming from an extrovert), it was extremely helpful and actually got me to my next step of starting a career coaching practice. I started with university career center and study abroad professionals because that’s where my most recent experiences were. However, I quickly came to the conclusion that I no longer wanted to work in these departments; I was ready for something new. So, I started branching out and talking to people who do coaching for a living and people who have started their own businesses. And pretty soon, my career goal started to become clearer and clearer, and with no surprise, I started becoming more and more motivated and directed. My exploration became less fragmented, my questions became more focused, and my action steps became more productive.
4. Create business cards.
If you’re in between jobs you may feel a loss of identity. Get free basic cards printed at http://vistacardsonline.com/ (plus shipping & handling). They have a variety of designs. You can have just your name and contact information printed, or you can include additional credentials and qualifications. Business cards increase your professionalism and come in handy during networking opportunities.
5. Implement structure to your day.
This will maximize your productivity and provide you with balance. What’s considered optimal structure will probably vary from person to person. For me, I found the greatest productivity and balance under the following schedule:
For those who don’t like too much structure, you can at least identify what percentage of your day to dedicate to which activities. It’s also helpful to consider your energy level when planning activities. Some of us work better in the morning and others at night.
6. Write “thank-you” notes/emails.
Most people like to feel appreciated. Express your appreciation to anyone who has helped you during your transition. This will not only validate their efforts but also encourage them to keep helping you. It’s also a good idea to keep people posted on your progress and to let them know once you’ve “landed” your next career. The more involved you keep your network, the more involved they will be in your job search.
7. Use a variety of resources, and choose quality over quantity.
Uploading your resume to every single online job bank can be exhausting and unproductive; it might be better to stick with just a few. Create job agents that will send you daily email listings, and focus on creating quality customized applications for jobs that really interest you. If you are not excited about applying for the job, are you really going to be excited working in it? And by the way, did I mention informational interviews?
8. Trust. Trust. Trust.
A dear friend once said to me, “Your next step is always right in front of you.” He was right. By exploring my interests, taking small manageable steps, and listening to my gut reactions I was bound to find the right opportunity. Or it would find me. But I had to firmly believe in that. I had to trust. You might ask, “How do you trust what you can’t see?” Valid question. I guess it’s just a matter of faith. Or logic: If you’re moving forward, you’ll always end up somewhere. It may not be where you initially intended to go, but if you stay true to yourself, how can you go wrong?
Career Transitions: Let what scares and excites you be that which ignites you.
Read more!
We all experience transition at some point, or more likely at several points, in our lives. Whether it’s from high school to college, or from college to your first “professional” job, or from one career to the next--they’re all transitions. They can be exciting. They can be re-invigorating. They can even be a new opportunity for growth!
And did I mention they can be scary? And discouraging? And unsettling? And stressful?
I have recently experienced transition myself, and I would have to yell a great big “YES!” to all of the above. I call it entering the “river of change” because it can feel like we are completely unanchored—in between two banks, paddling into the unknown. At times we can feel motivated to paddle our little hearts out, especially when we’re heading in the “right” direction. At other times, we can feel at a complete loss and allow our thoughts and fears to get the best of us:
“Where do I start?”
“Do I apply for what I already know or dare try something new?”
“What if I’m not qualified for something new?”
“How will I financially support myself during this transition?”
“I feel like I’m just randomly applying for everything.”
“I’m not really excited by anything!”
And the list goes on…
My friends, I wish I had a magic formula to alleviate the discomforts of transition or to prevent it altogether. But I don’t. However, I can share some strategies that just might make the process feel more manageable. So here it goes…
1. Congratulate yourself!
First thing’s first. You deserve a big pat on the back for having the courage to enter this unknown state. Something inside you said that you are ready to move on, to grow, to take the “next step,” because where you are is no longer cutting it. Think about how many people can’t or won’t even entertain the notion. After all, it is indeed a risk. Consider the number of people who will stay in their current situation because of fear or life circumstances. Many many people. But not you; you took the first step. You’ve committed to change!
2. Re-valuate what motivates you.
Chances are you have a different mindset or life situation now than in your last transition. So it’s time to re-evaluate! What was important to you then, and what’s important to you now? Maybe your motivators are the same, but they ceased to be met. For me, my motivators have shifted. Before my last job, I was looking for the following:
- having a strong mentor
- being part of a team
- learning new things
- helping students
- expressing my creativity
I successfully and gratefully found all of these things, which is why I stayed with my previous employer for seven years. However, my work values have shifted, and I am now motivated by:
- having independence and ownership over my work
- helping a broader range of clients
- gaining experience in business to complement my coaching skills
- having the freedom to set my own schedule
- increasing my income
Thus, I have new criteria to evaluate my future career options.
3. Begin exploration!
Time to identify what your next career options even are! Ultimately, you want a new career goal, so how do you begin this process? Start with who and what you know. Schedule informational interviews with previous employers and their contacts. For those of you who are unfamiliar with the concept of “informational interviews,” get familiar. Here is a great online tutorial: http://www.quintcareers.com/informational_interviewing.html.
From my experience, informational interviewing is one of the most effective job searching tools. It basically involves talking to people about their career field/industry/employer. The benefits? Gain more information about the careers you are considering and increase your network of contacts. By increasing your network, you are filling your “pipeline” so that more people have their eyes and ears opened for you. It’s amazing how many more job opportunities you will learn about when you have other people passing along referrals.
Exploration can at times feel discouraging, as you are likely to hit some dead ends or suddenly feel unmotivated by prospects that initially seemed promising. This is all part of the process! It can be just as helpful to eliminate incompatible options, as it is to identify compatible ones. It’s like dating (but that’s for a different time and a different blog).
I can’t even begin to count how many informational interviews I conducted in my last transition. Although it got tiring at times (and this is coming from an extrovert), it was extremely helpful and actually got me to my next step of starting a career coaching practice. I started with university career center and study abroad professionals because that’s where my most recent experiences were. However, I quickly came to the conclusion that I no longer wanted to work in these departments; I was ready for something new. So, I started branching out and talking to people who do coaching for a living and people who have started their own businesses. And pretty soon, my career goal started to become clearer and clearer, and with no surprise, I started becoming more and more motivated and directed. My exploration became less fragmented, my questions became more focused, and my action steps became more productive.
4. Create business cards.
If you’re in between jobs you may feel a loss of identity. Get free basic cards printed at http://vistacardsonline.com/ (plus shipping & handling). They have a variety of designs. You can have just your name and contact information printed, or you can include additional credentials and qualifications. Business cards increase your professionalism and come in handy during networking opportunities.
5. Implement structure to your day.
This will maximize your productivity and provide you with balance. What’s considered optimal structure will probably vary from person to person. For me, I found the greatest productivity and balance under the following schedule:
- Get up by 8:00 am, eat breakfast, and exercise.
- Conduct 1-2 hours of job searching (phone calls, emails, applications, internet research, informational interviews).
- Take a lunch break—either on my own or schedule a lunch meeting (connecting with a former colleague or other networking contact).
- Conduct 3 hours of job searching in the afternoon, with a couple of short breaks when needed।
- Stop all “work” activity by dinner—Leave the house and visit family and friends, take a walk, etc.
For those who don’t like too much structure, you can at least identify what percentage of your day to dedicate to which activities. It’s also helpful to consider your energy level when planning activities. Some of us work better in the morning and others at night.
6. Write “thank-you” notes/emails.
Most people like to feel appreciated. Express your appreciation to anyone who has helped you during your transition. This will not only validate their efforts but also encourage them to keep helping you. It’s also a good idea to keep people posted on your progress and to let them know once you’ve “landed” your next career. The more involved you keep your network, the more involved they will be in your job search.
7. Use a variety of resources, and choose quality over quantity.
Uploading your resume to every single online job bank can be exhausting and unproductive; it might be better to stick with just a few. Create job agents that will send you daily email listings, and focus on creating quality customized applications for jobs that really interest you. If you are not excited about applying for the job, are you really going to be excited working in it? And by the way, did I mention informational interviews?
8. Trust. Trust. Trust.
A dear friend once said to me, “Your next step is always right in front of you.” He was right. By exploring my interests, taking small manageable steps, and listening to my gut reactions I was bound to find the right opportunity. Or it would find me. But I had to firmly believe in that. I had to trust. You might ask, “How do you trust what you can’t see?” Valid question. I guess it’s just a matter of faith. Or logic: If you’re moving forward, you’ll always end up somewhere. It may not be where you initially intended to go, but if you stay true to yourself, how can you go wrong?
Career Transitions: Let what scares and excites you be that which ignites you.
Read more!
Thursday, July 24, 2008
Bridging the Gap: Cultural & Family Values in Career Decision-Making
It's the end of the academic year. A student comes into my office, visibly distressed and somewhat anxious. The student sits down, takes a deep breath, and says, "My parents want me to be a doctor, but I'm failing Biology. I want to major in the Arts, but am afraid about how they would react. I don't know what to do."
Final Points:
This scenario is not uncommon. As a former Career Counselor at the University of California, Irvine, I was fortunate to work with a very diverse population of students. Throughout these experiences, I have noticed time and time again how cultural and family values can impact career decision-making. Being an Iranian American myself, my family's values were largely shaped by the Persian culture, which places high value on education, prestige, and financial security. Consequently, careers in medicine, law, and engineering, are encouraged and in many families expected. Now don't get me wrong; These are all great professions for those who are genuinely interested in these fields. For those that aren't, however, there are other options that are just as great.
What happens then when a student wants to pursue a different path, like the Arts or the Social Sciences? In some cases, the student is both encouraged and supported by his or her family. For others, however, this is not always the case. The student might be forbidden to pursue such an "unstable" career, which can be highly discouraging for him or her and very strenuous on family relationships.
So as a Career Counseling professional, how do I approach this situation? Tell the student to think independently from his or her parents? Suggest pursuing his or her passion, regardless of the family's reaction? Absolutely not! In some families and in many collectivistic cultures, family and group decision-making is highly valued. So who is to say that an independent mindset is the "right" way to be? As a helping professional, it is imperative that I consider the "whole" person, and in doing so, tailor my counseling approach accordingly.
I first begin by recognizing the common ground between the student and his or her family. I often state, "It is obvious that both you and your parents have your best interest in mind. You each just have a different idea of what that means." It is not a question of right or wrong, but rather one of conflicting values.
Second, I encourage students to identify their own values and those of their parents, so that they can begin to see where the discrepancy lies. Once they have identified this discrepancy, we can begin to discuss how to reach a compromise. This process involves:
- Self-evaluation
- Tailored research
- Thoughtful planning
Let's take an example: "Leila" is a female Iranian American college sophomore who expresses interest in Studio Art. Her parents, however, want her to major in the Physical Sciences. Once I have listened and gained a good understanding of the situation, I can proceed with the following steps:
- I first have Leila complete a values assessment, comparing her values to those of her parents. In doing so, she identifies a conflict between her value for working in her interest field and her parents' value for high income.
- The next step is research. I refer Leila to online and Career Center resources, where she researches occupations that allow her to express her creativity. Her search may include finding out about sample job titles, typical career paths, opportunities for advancement, salary ranges, etc. This information can help address some of the concerns or questions raised by her parents.
- Third, Leila develops a timeline, which identifies specific action steps she plans to take each year for the next five years and specific deadlines for completing them. These steps may include applying for an internship, identifying and pursuing research opportunities, and so on.
Once Leila has completed this process, she then approaches her parents with all the information she has collected regarding her interest field and her specified action plan. By following this approach, students often come out of the process feeling more motivated, better organized, and more confident about communicating their desired goals. I find that parents are often more receptive to this because the student has provided them with the necessary "facts" to envision a successful future.
Final Points:
- We don't talk enough about the effects of parental and cultural pressure on our students. The lack of family support can have serious negative repercussion on the students when they are pursuing careers that are not a true extension of their natural abilities and desired interests (depression, anxiety, etc.).
- On a larger scale, the consequences for our society are tremendous. When students are only encouraged to pursue certain careers, we lack Iranian American representation in other career fields. This affects the community in the long run.
- Much of our behavior is based on misinformation. There are thousands of job titles in addition to Doctor, Lawyer, Engineer, etc. Go to your schools' Career Center to find out what your options are and how you can enter your desired career field.
- Keep in mind that high income does not necessarily lead to higher life satisfaction for all people.
- I offer the beginnings of a solution: Become aware. Parents and students: BOTH of your perspectives are important. And the only way to facilitate a healthy relationship is to have open communication. Parents, attend your students' school orientations, learn about the campus and resources so that you can better understand the environment your student is experiencing. Students, seek assistance when you need it. Don't fall in a downward spiral when you start feeling unmotivated or confused about your future. Use your resources; They are there to help you.
Read more!
Wednesday, July 23, 2008
"My Career: Imagine the Possibilities"
What is my career, the path I must take,
Defining myself, the money I make?
What is that which I do for fun,
From 8 to 5, or ‘til the work gets done?
And how will I know if this path is for me,
If my talents are worthy of others to see?
And can I have more than just one,
In case I get bored, or my first career’s done?
And what if I start to feel scared,
To leave what I have; Am I ever prepared?
All of these questions enter my mind,
Blocking me from what I must find.
‘Cause when I pretend the fear is not there,
That possibilities exist everywhere,
I begin to know what’s behind a career,
An evolving purpose, it’s why I am here.
Not just a job that I do everyday,
From 8 to 5, so the bills I can pay.
It’s giving the world something unique,
Which no one else can just learn in a week.
My career is an extension of all that I am,
Of that which is natural, my personal brand.
And in its absence, a void there would be,
‘Cause no one else on earth can be me.
So even if at times I feel stuck,
Get bored or indifferent, feel out of luck,
I’ll know I’ve entered the river of change,
Between two banks, lost and estranged.
Yet an exciting opportunity for me to evolve,
Though the answer’s unclear, in time I will solve.
And with it, another phase I’ll begin,
The same purpose, with a different spin.A new career that I did not foresee,
A better fit for the evolving me.
So let me end on this final note,
Pay close attention to all that I wrote.
Know who you are, your gifts and abilities,
And your career will unfold…Imagine the possibilities!
Read more!
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