You know you are ready for the next chapter in your career, but perhaps you want to take a different path and try something new. The question is, how do you know what you want to do? Here are some tips on figuring out what’s next in your journey.
Self-assessment:
Take some time to reflect on your interests, strengths, values, and goals. Make a list of your top skills and passions, and think about how they might translate into different careers. Consider taking a career assessment test or working with a career counselor to gain more clarity about your options.
Job shadowing or informational interviews:
Research industries and job roles that you find interesting and reach out to professionals working in those fields to request informational interviews or shadowing opportunities. This can give you a firsthand look at different career paths and help you decide if they align with your interests and skills.
Volunteer or intern:
Consider volunteering or interning in a field or industry that you’re interested in. This can help you gain experience and insight into a particular career path without committing to a full-time position. It can also be a great way to network and make connections that may lead to job opportunities in the future.
Networking and coffee:
Generally, people like to help people. The broader your network, the more likely it is that you will find connections in various businesses and industries. You can reach out to mutual connections directly and ask if they would meet for a coffee so you can pick their brains and get some tips on how best to approach entering a new market.
Ultimately, you spend more of your time at work than doing anything else, so if you think it is time to move on and try something new, it is worth exploring and taking the time to look further into your options. After all you won’t know if you don’t try!
