How to Discover Your Career Passion
Professionals often find themselves in need of a new challenge to recharge their inner fires.
Switching to a new industry or finding a new career passion can be daunting, and you need to have a strategic action plan in place in order to make a seamless transition. There are three steps to consider when contemplating a career change:
- Create a plan of action. Define your areas of interest while being realistic of making such a change. For instance, if you’re an attorney, deciding to be a CPA would be a long road to success. Identify industries you’re interested in and even a shortlist of companies you would like to be a part of, within reason. Research the companies and industries to see what opportunities are available that match your skill set and personality.
- From there, compile a list of your non-negotiables such as office culture, work/life balance, compensation or benefits. Decide what you’re willing to compromise on and what your deal-breakers are. You may want to have a shorter commute in exchange for less money or appreciate more or less travel time. Knowing your needs and preferences will help in choosing the right direction for your career.
- Fine-tune your resume and networking circles. Solidify your LinkedIn presence, which defines your personal brand, and let your profile tell your story. Also, leverage your network including friends, associates and LinkedIn connections. Ask for a meeting or call to gain insight into their company or industry. Absorb all you can from industry experts who can help lead you to the right opportunity or position.
Making a career change is all about “who you know” and how you differentiate yourself from others. If you find you are not having luck sending resumes for open positions, it may be time to enlist a recruiter who can be a liaison between you and employers and advocate on your behalf.
Have you found your career passion and made a professional change? Or you may be burnt out on your current job and need a new opportunity. Share your story with us below.