"What kind of career should I pursue?" "Which faculty should I choose to study?" "I don't like my job, but I don't know what I like." These are the questions that plague us all at some point in our lives. Careers are complex, and finding the right path can feel like navigating a maze blindfolded.
As Jack Welch wisely stated in his book Winning, "You have life ahead of you, but you understand it more easily when you look back. The same goes for careers." It's a common experience that our first job often isn't our dream job. Like Maslow's hierarchy of needs suggests, we often prioritize securing basic necessities upon graduation, leading us to take whatever opportunities are available.
But why do so many people find themselves dissatisfied and wanting to switch careers so quickly? While the definition of "quickly" is evolving in our fast-paced world, the underlying issue remains: many people jump into jobs without a clear understanding of themselves or their career goals.
Success in a career takes time and dedication. While exceptions exist, as Marcus Buckingham and Curt Coffman point out in First Break All the Rules, it typically takes 10 to 18 years to reach peak performance in a chosen field. So, how can recent graduates, and even those already in the workforce, navigate this complex landscape?
Advice for Recent Graduates:
- Know Thyself: Self-awareness is the cornerstone of career planning. Consider utilizing career aptitude tests and questionnaires (many are available online for a small fee). Personally, I recommend the StrengthsFinder assessment from the book StrengthsFinder by Marcus Buckingham and Don Clifton. Alternatively, a simpler approach is to ask 5-6 people you trust what they think you're good at and what careers they envision you excelling in.
- Assess the Landscape: Once you have a better understanding of your strengths and potential career paths, research the industries that align with those paths. For example, if you discover you have a knack for persuasion and sales, explore different industries like service (hospitals, education) or high-tech (computers, mobile phones). Each industry demands different skill sets and qualifications.
- Focus Your Search: Based on your self-assessment and industry research, pinpoint specific roles and companies that interest you.
- Plan Your Approach: Dive deeper into your chosen field. Research specific companies and their corporate cultures. A friendly, collaborative culture might be a better fit for you than a highly competitive one.
- Prepare Yourself: Identify the key qualifications required for your target roles. Focus on developing essential skills like computer proficiency, English fluency, and presentation skills. These are often transferable and valuable across various professions.
For Working Professionals Seeking a Change:
- Honest Self-Reflection: Before you jump ship, ask yourself honestly: "Have I given my current job my best effort?" If the answer is no, dedicate yourself fully to your current role. This is crucial for the next step. Working hard, even in a job you dislike, allows you to identify what you do enjoy and excel at, providing valuable criteria for future career choices. It also prevents a cycle of quitting and starting over without gaining valuable insights.
- Explore Internal Opportunities: Once you have a clearer picture of your strengths and preferences, look for different roles within your current organization. Hard work and dedication are often recognized, and your superiors may be willing to help you transition to a more suitable position.
- External Exploration: If internal opportunities are limited, begin your search elsewhere. Leverage your newfound self-awareness and industry research to find a career path that truly aligns with your passions and skills.
Finding the right career is a journey, not a destination. Be patient, be persistent, and most importantly, be true to yourself. By understanding your strengths, exploring different options, and dedicating yourself to your chosen path, you can create a fulfilling and successful career.