Career StrataGems!

© 2006, Rosemary Augustine  -  Posted May/June, 2006

   

Using A Creative Approach

There are many, many alternatives to consider when making a career move, and far more for you to contemplate before actually make the change.  This newsletter will address just a few things to keep in mind.

 Define Your Options:  What’s your Dream?  What is your passion?  If you could do anything and succeed, what would it be?   Other questions to consider include… Part Time, Full Time, Flexible Hours, Telecommute, Job Share, Own a Business, Consult, Contract? 

Develop A Strategy: This is a 3-pronged approach. Get focused, create a plan and take action. Most people don’t take action for a variety of reasons thus creating a set up to fail. 

Creating focus is most important by identifying your internal map of what it is you want to do, how your skills complement it (and will be maximized or developed), and who is the market for this… (job, career, business, idea, project).

Identify the tools you will need for developing your plan, including research, journaling, mind mapping, etc., as well as, marketing tools – resume, 2-minute commercial, networking contacts and responses to interview questions.

Take Action!  Often this is delayed or never implemented due to obstacles – real or imagined. Action is necessary to complete the career move regardless of how you feel (self-confidence), where you are or how much money you have.

Too many options?   Incorporate journaling into your life to identify your passion, consider your options and develop your strategy including how to work through your obstacles.  Or consider working with a coach who can help you through these tasks.

Identify Your Obstacles: Oh boy! I bet there are plenty of obstacles that are getting in your way from making a change at all.  Not to mention, making a big leap into a new career.  Here’s a few that come to my mind that are common… Fear, Risk and Money.  Work with and/or through your obstacles.

Common Thread: As a result of being passionate about what you do, you then can proceed with picking your options, planning your strategy and work with your obstacles.

Something To Think About!

Can’t come up with what you want to do?  Brainstorm these ideas and professions. Do research online, look at all different kinds of opportunities.  Be open to ideas, suggestions, even your own thoughts when reading this list.  And, think positive!  There’s no room for negative thought patterns when considering making a career move.  Typically the negative thoughts are centered around the obstacles of fear, risk and money.

Some non-traditional jobs / careers to consider may include:  owning your own business… buying a franchise… starting a consulting practice… contracting …part time multi-level marketing of a product or service… real estate agent … property manager … landlord… remodeling … carpenter… painter… landscaping… gardening… Handy(wo)man… architect… highway or bridge construction… OTR truck driver… motorcycle mechanic… golf cart service and repairs… graphic artist… commercial artist or painter… photographer… 

Or the medical field including… RN, LPN, CNA, EMT, physical therapist, personal trainer, dentist, vet or assistant to any of these. 

Sadly, Since 9/11, security is a hot field so possibly law enforcement…. security guard…. firefighter.  The service industry includes positions such as retail, hospitality, food and beverage and call centers.  And there’s always the flexible work of SALES… any kind of product or service – that you just love.

The arts are an area that many people are drawn to as they make changes… music, painting, crafting.  Artists, Musicians, piano mover, piano teacher, crafts instruction…. 

It doesn’t matter if you can’t make money at any of these - initially.  What matters is that you are passionate about what you are doing… whether it’s helping people, making a difference in someone’s life … changing for the better, or… you decide the reason.

 

Some online resources to consider…

www.careeradvice.com and it’s many links - see LINKS button.

www.wetfeet.com

www.sologig.com

 

Some books to consider…

How to Live & Work Your Passion and Still Earn a Living

Facing Changes In Employment

Do What You Are

Do What You Love and the Money Will Follow

Occupational Outlook Handbook

Best Jobs of the 21st Century

Discover The Best Jobs For You

Zen and The Art of Making a Living

Making a Living without a Job

What Color Is Your Parachute

Or Try Mind Mapping Your Ideas…  

Good Luck!

Rosemary Augustine

If you or someone you know needs help during their career transition with a resume, interviewing or job search strategy, please direct them to my website www.careeradvice.com .  You will find useful information for business, career and/or life balance situations. 

  Or contact me directly at 610.647.8863.  Information regarding my fees and services are posted on the website.  I work with all budgets and can help you move into new directions quickly.  Thanks!

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