Archived Newsletter
Considering a Career Change? Now May be the Time
Author(s): Sally Daniel, Executive Consultant at OI Partners - Venturion in San Antonio, TX
It's that time of year, and resolutions are in the making. While evaluating the passing year and identifying opportunities for growth and positive change, don't limit your list to losing those 15 pounds. It's time to take an objective look at the way you spend every day, and the level of fulfillment found in your work.
When you took that first career step, what were your goals? Are you on the path? Have those goals changed? If unhappy, are you in the wrong career, or just the wrong company? Are you using your true and inspired skills and abilities? Stephen Covey, author of "The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People" (Fireside, 1990) writes, "There's no point in working really hard at climbing the ladder to success if the ladder is leaning up against the wrong wall." Are your efforts taking you to a place you want to go?
The U.S. Department of Labor estimates that employees will change careers at least three times during their work lives. Other estimates are higher. Still, countless talented, successful professionals go to work every day wishing they were doing something else. If dissatisfied in your current role and considering a career change, now may be the time to look at your options. With unemployment at the lowest rate since 2001, new positions are being created across a multitude of industries, and opportunity is everywhere. Many career transitions that are commonplace today were much more difficult just a few years ago.
Many successful professionals consider career changes for years before finally taking action. There are valid concerns that delay this potentially life-altering move, but it essentially boils down to fear. Fear of the unknown. Fear of stepping outside of the comfort zone. Fear of no longer being the expert. Fear of failure. Then there is that money issue...the golden handcuffs have halted many a pursuit of passion. But that doesn't have to be the case if you have effectively translated the value of your past successes.
Contrary to popular opinion it is not necessary to start at the bottom of the food chain when transitioning into a new career field. Your experience has value. Wise decision makers recognize the transferability and universal nature of most professional skills. Now it becomes your job to effectively brand yourself. Impactful articulation of your value proposition is the first step to engaging your potential employer. Successfully communicate your interest and ability to solve a decision maker's problem, and you'll find yourself evaluating a much more appropriate offer.
For some it's easier to remain unfulfilled than to make the necessary effort to affect change in their life. Resolve to take charge of your own destiny. As you consider your resolutions for 2007, consider the right next step for your life. If you are in your dream job, enjoy it! Celebrate! Anticipate and plan your ideal career progression. If not, explore your options. Dream a little. With some strategy and determination, you'll be discussing next year's resolutions at your water cooler of choice.
Sally Daniel is an Executive Consultant at OI Partners-Venturion in San Antonio,, with 19 years of experience in career management and human resources. Sally can be reached at 210-384-8044.
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