Your Ideal Career – in 5 Steps!

Somewhere along the way – did your career and your professional dreams veer away from one another?

It’s tough to leave the known for the unknown, to have the courage to do what you love – but a change may do you good.

Here’s how to get started:

Reflect on skills to discover new opportunities.

What are your strongest skills? Are you extremely organized, a people person, analytical? Create a list and brainstorm options that fit.

Broaden your search.

According to futurist Thomas Frey, “As a rule of thumb, 60 percent of the jobs 10 years from now haven’t been invented yet.” Try researching trends in your field. You could be a fit for something you didn’t know existed.

“… 60 percent of the jobs 10 years from now haven’t been invented yet.”

Take a career assessment.
Assessments can be a valuable tool to learn how your interests and focus areas may have changed, and matching those specifics with appropriate careers.

Ask around.
Reach out to professionals in the industry you’re considering to see what it’s like to work in the field. Get a feel for expectations of the position you’re seeking and determine next steps.

Attend industry events.

Learn more about industry trends while gaining access to potential mentors that could help you land a job.

Cheers to finding a dream job that makes you happy!

COMMENT: What’s your ideal career? Tell us!

BONUS PINK LINK: Three myths about workplace flexibility debunked.

By Alison O’Kelly

Allison O’Kelly is founder/CEO of the national talent acquisition and career development firm Mom Corps. Find out more at www.MomCorps.com or follow her on Twitter @AllisonO’Kelly.

“It takes a lot of courage to show your dreams to someone else.” Erma Bombeck

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