At important crossroads in our careers, we may receive a wake-up call telling us that something has changed, something does not feel right anymore. This wake-up call could be as a result of losing your job, being passed over for promotion, or perhaps coming up to retirement. New graduates often get the wake-up call when they leave college life and start the job hunt. COVID-19 certainly has given us all a wake-up call. The enforced time out has provided the opportunity to take stock, strive to be better than before and adopt a no limits mindset.
At important crossroads in our careers, we may receive a wake-up call telling us that something has changed, something does not feel right anymore. This wake-up call could be as a result of losing your job, being passed over for promotion, or perhaps coming up to retirement. New graduates often get the wake-up call when they leave college life and start the job hunt.
COVID-19 certainly has given us all a wake-up call. The enforced time out has provided the opportunity to take stock, strive to be better than before and adopt a no limits mindset.
1 What kind of job or career do you want?
Our purpose. We are all different. Finding a suitable career is governed by our career drivers – what makes you YOU? What makes you feel enriched? I find most people are vague on what they are looking for in a career. Writing down answers to ABC is a good start.
A What do you love doing?
B What do you excel at?
C What gets you results?
2 What are your
transferable skills?
A good CV projects your knowledge, experience, skills set and attributes. I find most people are not fully aware of what they have to offer. They get somebody to write their CV or copy the format of another’s CV. They don’t have the conviction in what they can offer. Your CV should be edited for every job you are applying for. The focus should be on your value proposition – how you can add value to the particular busines or organisation.
3 What organisations would value your particular attributes and skills and be great places to work?
In the age we live in, it is relatively easy to target organisations who recruit people like you. Do your research. Organisations that treat their staff with respect and fairness should be a high priority. Additionally, opportunities for career progression should be a factor in where you apply.
4 How can I build my CV?
A good job and organisation should provide the opportunity to gain experience, develop new skills, new attitudes and new capabilities. Learning and development is a lifelong process. Successful people are constantly building their CV. They have a growth mindset. They volunteer for special projects. They participate in training courses.
5 How can I put my career plan into action?
Once you have a broad outline of your career plan, you will need to set SMART goals. Opening a file to write down thoughts and plans is important. Having the discipline to follow through on your goals is critical. Where do I want to be by next year/the next five years?
6 How can I build my network?
Somebody once said your net worth is equal to your network. Develop meaningful relationships with people who are leaders in their field. People you would like to work with. A small group of trusted people to connect with.
7 Who will support me?
We all need support. The importance of sharing your vision for maximum impact – when you have finished writing down your vision, share your vision with a good friend who you know will be positive and supportive. Each time you share your vision, it becomes more real and attainable. Find a good coach who will be your partner on your journey. Let today be the start of something new.
Brendan Heneghan is an agri career and interview coach – www.brendanheneghancoaching.com. If you have a question for Brendan; email us at advice@farmersjournal.ie
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