Considering a career 180?
Dear Sam: I enjoy reading your advice column, and I’m writing to you because I feel I’m in a slight bind. I’m feeling bored and unmotivated at work. The job pays well, but most of my time is spent looking at computer monitors. When I was younger, I obtained a graphic-design certificate but never pursued design as a career. I love art and design. It motivates me, and I would love to be a full-time artist. I think I need a career change, but I’m not sure what to do. Any advice? — Anonymous
Dear Anonymous: I understand your situation. It can be very challenging when you have carved out a niche for your career, but deep down, you feel compelled to do something different. Given the analytical nature of your day-to-day work compared to the creative drive you possess, I can see the struggle you must be facing.
Have you thought about building your graphic-design or art portfolio through freelance work or volunteer engagements? This is a great way to build a portfolio and update your skills.
I work with many clients who want to do something different in their careers — and “different” doesn’t have to be the complete opposite of what you are doing now. Perhaps just changing companies or industries, still engaging in similar analytical work but freelancing on the side, would fulfill both your need to earn a paycheck and your desire to be more artistically engaged.
Evaluate the type of position you want to transition into; then review job postings and requirements to gain a sense of how qualified you are for these roles, given your lack of recent experience in the design arena. It may make the most sense to transition into an organization that has opportunities for you to diversify your contributions beyond what you are doing now, hopefully, with a path to getting into the more creative arena you seek.
Also, start networking in the graphic-arts community by joining online forums or attending local association meetings to start to gain a sense of what the design industry is like. I hope you find what you are looking for.
— Samantha Nolan is a certified professional resume writer and the owner of Ladybug Design, a full-service resume-writing firm. Email resume or job-search questions to dearsam@arkansasonline.com. To find out more about Nolan, visit www.ladybugdesign.com.