How To Figure Out What Career Is Right For You
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I get this question all the time - "How can I figure out what I actually want to do?" If you're anything like me (and the majority of my clients), you likely stumbled into your current career as you were looking to land a job after graduation. While that scenario is quite common, my mission is to ensure women don't continue stumbling along their career path. Instead, I want you to walk boldly on the path that best suits you!
At a high level, you can begin to uncover what you'd actually like to do by following my R.I.S.E. framework. R.I.S.E. stands for review, identity, solidify and engage. Let's take a look at what each stage entails!
REVIEW YOUR CURRENT STATE
At the foundation of any rewarding career is clarity. To love your career, you need to have a deep understanding of who you are and what you truly value. Ask yourself the following questions:
What motivates me?
What have I liked and disliked about your previous jobs?
What would I consider as "non-negotiable" when it comes to my job?
What are my strengths and weaknesses?
What would I consider my core skills?
How far am I willing to go to create a career I'll love?
IDENTIFY YOUR DESIRED FUTURE STATE
Based on your responses in the Review section, you can begin step two -informed research. Below are some ways to identify positions that line up with your skills, experience, and interests:
Career aptitude test
Conversations with current network
Old-fashioned internet searches
SOLIDIFY ALL OF YOUR BRAND DOCUMENTS
Before these companies speak with you, they're likely learning about you based on how you represent yourself on your LinkedIn profile, resume, cover letter, and/or personal website. It's essential to put your best foot forward as you re-introduce yourself to Corporate America.
Ask yourself the following questions:
Do my brand documents paint a complete picture of who I am as a professional?
Do my brand documents highlight my key selling points for the new career?
ENGAGE & GET GOING
Active pursuit requires ACTION. Below are some of the action steps that will help bridge the gap between you and the career you'll love:
Network, network, network!
Identify your board of trusted advisors.
Try some things out - volunteer, take a part-time gig, begin the certification process, etc.
Apply strategically.
If you still find yourself struggling to figure out what you actually want to do next, book a 1:1 career strategy session with me! Check out the strategy session overview and F.A.Q. by clicking the button below.
