So you’re not really in the mood to jump up and down with glee at the job you’re currently holding?
Problem with your boss? Low pay? Stagnant position? At a dead end? Not really your kind of job? Lousy company?
Don’t despair, help is on the way! It’s actually there already – it’s because the one who will help you is no one else but …. of course you! Who you think, me? Well, I could…if I didn’t have problems of my own.
Okay, here are possible solutions for us, office sufferers, courtesy of Andrea Kay, career consultant, speaker, and author of several books including “Greener Pastures: How to Find a Job in Another Place.”
Step 1: Assess your situation, review your strengths, and dig in your heels. To even think you won’t have roadblocks is unrealistic, so number one — accept them. Once you’ve done that, take time out to reflect. Don’t rush to develop a new resume. That’s the mistake almost everyone makes. Instead, reflect on what isn’t working, what’s not right about where you are, what your greatest strengths are, and what you love to do. (Me, I love to daydream – is there a high-paying job for that?)
Step 2: Explore your options, set goals, and make plans to develop yourself to fit your new career path. The best way to find a new job is to hold meaningful conversations with people. Talk about your career with people who can guide you and refer you. (Okay, Spotty, could you refer me to anyone that could use all my God-given talents? “Woof, woof!” Is that a yes?)
Networking with some old friends is how Cameron Herald eventually became the vice president of operations for 1800GotJunk, a junk removal company in Vancouver that serves North America. Prior to that, he literally broke down from job-induced stress. His health literally depended on a change in his work lifestyle.
Take a look and find the companies that are well-respected in the industry. See which ones are ranked as good employers. Of course there may be some bumps in the road. Maybe you’ll have to get a part time job on weekends at Starbucks to pay the rent. Or maybe you’ll have to use an executive recruiter to help me find a new position. Nonetheless, every single obstacle can be beaten (Easier said than done when you’re facing a multi-headed dragon of a problem).
Step 3: Acquire new skills by returning to school and/or volunteering.
Step 4: Do something you enjoy. Ultimately, it’s up to you to find a job in which you can be happy. When you notice yourself not feeling challenges, not feeling energized, and watching the clock, start taking note. Once your motivation to move on outweighs your fear, you’re ready to make the leap (Again, easier said than done for people who have a fear of heights).