We need sparks of joy and success in our career. This may require you to advance in your current job or switch paths entirely. Learning how to make these career transitions is a crucial skill. We spend one-third of our lives at work. We desire a fulfilling, vibrant life that we can be proud of.
We need change in our lives to grow and evolve, yet it can be scary and overwhelming. Breaking out of your comfort zone isn’t an easy feat though a necessary one. This is where having a career coach comes in handy. A professional career coach can guide you through the transition process and empower you to show up the way you truly want to in your career and life.
I know how you feel.
I was in the same boat. After 25 years of managing dual careers, both as a senior executive at a creative agency by day and simultaneously as a singer/actor by night, I needed a change. I was no longer inspired. I was no longer excited. I wanted more and in fact I wanted to somehow merge my dual careers. I felt the call to explore and imagine what was possible. The status quo was unacceptable. I decided to hire my first leadership and career coach. It was the best decision I ever made. She reinvigorated my career and helped me to believe in possibility. Out of that journey of search and discovery that ensued, I found an insightful way to take the best of me and both careers forward.
In the process of getting there, I did a lot of research across many career development and career transition frameworks. I combined my experiences with my coach, my network, and my own research to create a uniquely transformative highly curated program. Over the past few years, I have been overjoyed to see my mentees follow my process and make transformational changes consistent with where they are in life today and what their aspirations and hopes are for their future.
That is how InspirationSQRD was born!
This couldn’t have been possible without the guidance of my career coach. With her sage advice, I realized that I was capable of making this change. My journey was so transformative, and my research became so deep that I realized I could use my newfound knowledge and experience to guide others through their career journeys.
In this article, I will be giving you a breakdown of the well-developed and tested career coaching strategies I use with my clients to help them take their next bold career move. From the early stages of conceiving alternative career paths to finally executing a desired plan, these tips will help you navigate the process with confidence and clarity.
Understanding the Need for Change
Recognizing the Signs of a Career Change
If you’re here already, you’ve likely been experiencing some signs of discontent in your current job. Below are some common indicators that signal it’s time to make a change for the better:
Internal Signs: You no longer find joy or fulfillment in your work. This could leave you feeling drained, unmotivated, or disengaged. You’re constantly daydreaming about doing something else, and you feel like your current job just isn’t challenging enough for you.
External Signs: The market has changed, and there are better opportunities available. Your company culture doesn’t align with your values, making it difficult to thrive at work. This could manifest as a lack of recognition, unequal pay, or a toxic work environment.
Overcoming the Fear of Change
When we are unhappy with our careers, you’d think leaving said job would be easy. But comfort can oftentimes outweigh change. Often, we convince ourselves that the unknown is scarier than our current situation. What if we fail? What if it doesn’t work? What will people think?
But here’s a career truth bomb: those fears are all lies. They’re just limiting beliefs that we hold to feel safe. They ultimately prevent us from taking that next bold career move and achieving our higher potential.
So, how do we overcome these fears? First, we identify the lies we’ve been telling ourselves. My free E-book, The Top 7 Career Lies We Tell Ourselves That Hold Us Back, offers an in-depth exploration of these common career lies and ways to overcome them. Once you acknowledge these ingrained beliefs, you’ll be able to squash them the moment they rear their ugly heads.
Self-Assessment and Goal Setting
Identifying Your Strengths and Passions
What sparks joy in you? What are you good at? What do your friends and family always turn to you for? These and similar questions can give you a good sense of your strengths and passions.
Many of us have abandoned our dreams, whether it was something we loved to do as a child, or a talent we buried because it didn’t seem practical. Revisiting these forgotten passions and what they mean for you today can become a deeper reflection on what inspires you. Some of these elements that can be sought in new career possibilities.
One great way to uncover a buried passion is through journaling. Try to write a few pages a day with no judgment or expectation, and you’ll be surprised at the insights you gain! Sometimes we just need time to reconnect with our inner voice and listen and recall what makes us truly happy.
Setting Clear and Achievable Goals
Once you’ve identified your passions and strengths, it’s time to set some goals. You don’t need to have a detailed plan for the next ten years, but having a clear direction can help keep you on track. Be as specific as you can with your goals, including timelines and tangible outcomes.
It’s important, especially in the beginning, to set achievable goals. This ensures that you don’t get overwhelmed and give up on your aspirations altogether. Break down your ultimate goal into smaller, more manageable targets, and celebrate each milestone along the way.
For example, if your goal is to be your own boss and start your own business, the first step could be researching potential markets or taking a course in entrepreneurship. These small achievements will keep you motivated and give you a sense of accomplishment that you are rowing in the right direction.
Exploring New Career Options
Skills, Interests and Values
Gaining a better understanding of your skills, interests, and values is the lever by which you lift your career in new directions. This knowledge can provide valuable insights into potential career paths that you may not have considered before. It is important to tie it all back to your skills, interests, and values.
Using customized coaching tools for career transformation is beneficial when exploring a career change. With these tools in your arsenal, you’ll get curated guidance and support as you navigate through the challenges of exploring new career options. And guess what? I have a FREE 5-Day Career Booster Course that can guide you through the process step-by-step!
Building and Leveraging Your Network
Networking Strategies for Career Changers
Given that we live in the age of social media, you’re already at an advantage when it comes to networking. Platforms like LinkedIn allow you to connect with professionals from all over the world, and. join industry-specific groups and engage in discussions related to your desired career path.
While LinkedIn is a key tool in networking, don’t discount the power of face-to-face interactions. Attend events, conferences, and seminars related to your field of interest and make genuine connections with people. These interactions can lead to mentorship opportunities, job referrals, or even partnerships. Be authentically yourself, and the right people will be drawn to your passion and energy.
The Importance of Mentorship and Professional Guidance
Building a network won’t do anything for you unless you know how to leverage it. Mentors and career coaches can provide invaluable guidance, support, and advice as you map out how to make a successful career change.
My career transition program is a great way to gain access to personalized mentorship and professional guidance to make your journey a success. Whether you’re looking to make a complete career change or take your current career to the next level, my career transition coaching is customized to your unique needs and journey.
You have found your North Star. What Next?
You have done the hardest task: peering into your aspirations, skills and values and identifying what career you want. Your compass is now pointing in that direction and your personal brand is clear and you can project with confidence. The next steps are simpler.
- Identify skill gaps and leverage online learning.
- Update your resume and professional profiles, aligning them with your new personal brand and story.
- Tailor your documents to not only match industry-specific language and keywords, but also assure it has your imprint and who you are shines through. Many candidates may meet the skills requirements, but this strategic approach will enhance your visibility to recruiters and hiring managers seeking outstanding candidates.
Interview Strategies That Reflect You
Once you land the interview, it’s time for my signature offering: helping you tell your authentic story and stepping into your personal power! Your interview is the perfect opportunity to showcase your passion, drive, and determination to make a career change.
To effectively communicate who you are and what you stand for, I offer a Camera Confidence Session to help you present your best self.
Ready to ignite your career transformation?
It’s time to break free from the mundane and embrace the exhilarating journey of change! One-third of our lives is spent at work, and its high time for sparks of joy and success to illuminate your path.
Picture this: A life where fulfillment and vibrancy are your daily companions. It’s not just a dream; it’s a bold reality waiting for you. But breaking out of your comfort zone is no easy feat. Fear may whisper in your ear, but it’s time to silence those doubts.
Imagine: You’ve found your North Star – now, illuminate your path, bridge skill gaps, and confidently project your unique brand. Interviews are not hurdles but stages to showcase your authentic story. Let’s embark on this exhilarating adventure together – your dream career awaits!
Are you ready to embrace it?
Take the first step and schedule a 1-on-1 consultation with me to learn more about my programs and how I can support you in making a successful career change. Don’t let fear or uncertainty hold you back from reaching your full potential – take action today!
