Ask 6 questions for insight in managing your career
Q: I work in a professional setting and enjoy my job, but several colleagues have been let go. I do not want to be caught off guard and lose my job. What suggestions do you have in maintaining my marketability while still employed for now?
A: This year has been unpredictable in many ways, with changes in the marketplace. Seeing your coworkers losing their jobs only adds to the feeling of being vulnerable. An unstable business environment heightens most people’s awareness of needing to be prepared.
Managing your career can help you avoid being caught off guard when changes are happening at work. Rather than sensing that change could happen to you, start by being proactive and paying more attention to your career path.
One of the stressors that arises from an unpredictable business climate is spending time guessing what might happen to you. The energy you spend on trying to read the tea leaves could be focused on outlining your next steps.
You need to ask yourself six questions every few months to help you determine your next career steps. Your answers will help you formulate a plan if a sudden change happens in your job.
1. What are my most vital skills that could be transferred to another industry if I need to make a career change? List as many skills as possible.
2. What makes me stand out from other professionals who have the same credentials? Could I readily verbalize what makes me unique?
3. If I lost my job tomorrow, what are the types of companies that interest me the most? Make a list of companies and update it often.
4. How much time are you devoting to networking with people? Are you staying in contact with them regularly or as needed? Maintaining and building relationships consistently empower you rather than making you feel like you must renew connections.
5. Are you taking care of your skills by staying up to date on new software? Are you taking training classes to strengthen your skills?
6. Are you enjoying your career or just waiting around until you are forced to make a change? Being proactive in managing your career can boost confidence that will
Making a career move under pressure and being caught off guard is not always the best way to enter a new field. Pay close attention to the changes taking place around you and be proactive — it is your career.
come through when talking with others.
Take time every few months to ask yourself these questions. Being honest with your answers often gives you an advantage in planning ahead of time for unexpected changes. Making a career move under pressure and being caught off guard is not always the best way to enter a new field. Pay close attention to the changes taking place around you and be proactive — it is your career.