By: Paula Kerr, Evolv Career Services
If you’ve been thinking about reinventing your career, you’re probably not alone. There are many others out there like you who are at this same place. Everyone should take inventory of his or her career periodically. Changing careers is a great way to continue to evolve and not settle for the status quo. This is one of the main reasons I started this career services business – for the second time around! You might call it, “Round Two.”
My own career journey has gifted me with years of unique knowledge, skills, and experience to help those launching into their career journey figure out exactly what they want to do…and to be, or to provide practical and professional advice to others seeking a change, or those returning to the workforce; or just helping someone create a resume that can land them their dream job.
When I landed my first full-time job I was 17 years old. Now, after more than 40 years in the workforce, I feel like I’ve finally come into being and I’m ready to pursue new opportunities like this blog that I hope will help you evolve into doing…and being great at whatever road you take in your endeavors.
At Evolv Career Services, our mission is to inspire you to “walk” on paths you’re reluctant to travel, all through carefully guided, open and honest conversations. Basically, it’s passing on to you the “know-how” of finding and keeping a good job, and then blazing your own trail for others. You never know you might one day find yourself leading someone else along their career path!
While it is my goal to design a winning résumé and land that dream job, it is also my ambition to help you understand why your career is more than just another job. In fact, you should know that your career is less about what you do and more about who you are. Hence, the reason we must be willing to evolve. So, where to begin, you might ask. Let’s start with the basics. . . .
Evaluate Your Career. While this doesn’t necessarily mean you have to relocate or change jobs, it is always a good practice to review where you are in your career at least once a year. But, don’t just stop there; have a plan of action as to whether you want to change, move to another position, or even learn a different skill. Some people have gone as far as acquiring additional education, especially if they wish to change to a different field of work. The possibilities are endless!
Update Your Resume. It’s always a good idea to keep a current version of your resume on hand. This should include the role you’re currently in and a list of successful projects or wins. If you think about it, at any time your present situation could change, perhaps without warning. Or, you might all of a sudden realize it’s time for a career change and you want to renew your resume to match that new position. The timing couldn’t be better. If you need help, you can schedule a free review of your resume and we’ll be glad to assist you. Just click this link.
Rebrand Yourself. Sometimes this might mean a complete career change or obtaining another degree — perhaps in a different field of study, or it might even mean changing departments where you work. People do it all the time, and it’s a great way to work your way around, and up, in any company.
You should know that rebranding one’s self isn’t an easy overnight task. So, if you’re really serious about making a change, here are a few ideas that might help:
- Be strategic! Figure out how you want to be noticed and let your story speak for your brand.
- Take a genuine interest in what you hope to achieve and allow those around you to see the efforts you’re making to improve your personal brand — especially those who have given you advice during the journey.
- Networking rocks! Connect with as many people as possible. Invite others on the journey and don’t be afraid to show your worth. Get others to appreciate your story and link up with those who share your interests.
One more thing, re-branding yourself is not a guarantee for success. There will be times when you might doubt your efforts, or get frustrated. So, take things one step at a time, day by day. Each accomplishment will motivate you to do more, so set small goals, follow simple rules, and discover the new you!
Become a Mentor. Why not? Mentoring can be a very rewarding experience. Not only do you get the opportunity to positively influence others; you can also learn from each person you meet. This could be the opportunity you’ve been looking for. There’s a whole world out there looking for someone who can lead them to the next level in their career. Perhaps that someone is you. Perhaps your new opportunity has indeed arrived!
Attend Conferences, Seminars, and Workshops. These types of events, paid or unpaid, can provide a plethora of knowledge, and great opportunities to network and meet people in your field. You also get the benefit of learning new information and the ability to share your ideas and get helpful feedback and input from credible individuals. You might even enjoy and learn from free online webinars from time to time.
Keep Your Skills Sharp! Change is happening all around us; nothing stays the same anymore. Our industries are in constant disruption, and so you need to keep moving, doing and being, especially when it comes to the latest trends and changes in technology, innovation, and education. You don’t want to miss out!
Whatever you do, you should never stop doing, never stop being, and never stop evolving!
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